In the JagWire‘s reviews of three diverse albums, mainstream artists prove mediocre while relatively unknown artists establish their abilities.

Blue Slide Park, Mac Miller–three out of five stars

Ever since he released his free mixtape Best Day Ever earlier this year, it seems that Pittsburgh’s Mac Miller officially became the school’s favorite rapper. With his consistent and unique beats and easygoing lyrics, he was a likeable figure. On Blue Slide Park, his debut album, Miller has responded to the hype and expectations by releasing an album just like Best Day Ever, full of unique beats and easygoing lyrics. As a rapper, Mac remains nothing special. His flow has gotten slightly flashier on songs like “Smile Back.” The lyrics stay as uninspired boasts about his partying capabilities, but there’s nothing outright cringe-worthy, and they’re able to comfortably add to the fun party vibe set forth by the beats. Just like Miller himself, the mood of the beats stays largely one-noted and focused on creating a sound custom-made for a house party. They work best when they’re restrained, such as the moody beat to “My Team.” Likewise, it’s when they go over the top that the album sees its worst material (“Up All Night”). All in all, it never tries to be anything it isn’t, which is a poppy, low expectations party rap album. While aiming so low, one might argue that it is easy to meet such expectations, but Blue Slide Park passes nonetheless.

Stronger, Kelly Clarkson–two out of five stars

The title does not lie; Kelly Clarkson’s newest album seems to only focus on getting stronger.

With most of the songs talking about break-ups or relationship problems, Clarkson seems to be hinting at her personal life throughout the album.

The most popular track on the album, played on the radio much too often, is “Mr. Know It All.”

Most of the songs have a “better without you” attitude, but some are more solemn.

If iTunes is your thing, I’d recommend only purchasing the following songs: “What Doesn’t Kill You (Stronger),” “You Can’t Win,” and “The Sun Will Rise.”

Compared to her first four albums, this one falls a little flat.

Overall, the album isn’t worth the purchase.

The Head and the Heart by The Head and the Heart–four out of five stars

For someone who usually listens to Top 40 tracks, The Head and the Heart would be a significant change from what they typically listen to. Similar to Mumford and Sons, The Head and the Heart is an indie-pop, folk rock band. They got their start in Seattle, Wash., and released their debut album, The Head and the Heart, in 2009. Overall, the album has a relaxed, acoustic feel that puts its listener in a good mood. The most notable songs on the album are “Down in the Valley” and “Lost in my Mind” because of their more upbeat nature.