To say that Super Junior’s ascent as elder statesmen of k-pop has been a graceful one would be wishful thinking. With multiple controversies sidelining several members, it feels like this upcoming comeback’s very existence is a minor miracle. And though there may only be seven of the once thirteen-member group promoting this time around, the prospect of new music still feels momentous. Whatever your feelings around Super Junior may be, the guys bring a unique and important sense of personality to k-pop.

Before title track Black Suit arrives next Monday, the group is pre-releasing the type of grisled, emotional ballad you would expect of senior artists looking back on a discography full of hits. One More Chance (비처럼 가지마요) was composed by member Donghae, who previously proved his writing chops on 2015’s stunning Growing Pains. Like that song, Chance has a melodic, widescreen appeal with a pop/rock influence that sees the group swinging for the fences and nearly getting there. The surging instrumental is note-perfect for this kind of release, teasing out the song’s inherent drama while never overpowering the performances that cement Chance‘s success.

It’s been a long while since we heard a track this straightforward from a major k-pop group. In the current climate of beat drops and production affectations, it’s refreshing to hear something that feels authentic to its group’s story. Super Junior are likely aware that they will never be a “trending” act again, but that should free them up to create music that more accurately reflects their own personality. One More Chance is understated in its ambition, but by harnessing their own history, the song is imbued with a refined sort of power that feels perfectly suited to their current incarnation. It’s also one hell of a way to tease what is already one of the fall’s most anticipated albums.

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