Despite their relative newness to the genre, DAY6 are the idol rock band to beat at the moment. Their two mini albums have been consistently great, and the only thing that’s really held them back has been a lack of steady releases. So when it was announced that the group would be putting out a single on the 6th day of every month in 2017, my ears instantly perked up. We already know they have the goods when it comes to composition and performance. Now we just get to sit back and reap the rewards for an entire year!

Refreshingly, the first single in this staggered release schedule opts for full-force rock rather than the more traditional winter ballad some may have been expecting. I Wait (아 왜)’s chorus features a driving beat that pushes forward with more energy than any of their past title tracks. We’re heard this sound before on their albums, but in a way, the sogng feels like a public reintroduction of the group.

Opening with a spacey electronic pulse, I Wait‘s verses are a slow-build, taking full advantage of the members’ unique, complementary vocal tones. The pre-chorus — though very pretty — almost feels like it could have been cut in half and packed just as much punch. But maybe that’s just because once you hear the massive chorus, you’re eager to get back to it as soon as possible. The melody packs an anthemic heft, but with a very accessible, sing-along touch. It feels more radio-friendly and immediate than their last single, though it remains to be seen if its charms will feel just as fresh months down the line. Either way, it’s a very strong start for what should end up as DAY6’s best year yet.