Although he may be primarily known as a ballad singer, Lee Ki Chan's new single "First Impression," featuring horn-driven, large ensemble, the Holland All-Star Band, is a frenetic burst of energy.

With a noticeable nod to salsa, Cuban dance music that rose to international prominence in the New York City of the 1970s, "First Impression" is a powerful, genre-bending new sound for the South Korean musician.

Built on top of the powerful horn sound of the Holland All-Star Band, the song wastes no time, jumping head first into a sound that is rarely heard in pop music outside of Cuba.

The band delivers a tight performance, and at age 34, Lee Ki Chan sounds as confident as ever on the track.

Nailing the intricate rhythm of "First Impression," Lee employs a strong, yet laid-back delivery that would have made Frank Sinatra proud.

Yet instead of being dialing in the vocal sound of iconic American big band singers like Sinatra or Tony Bennett, Lee shoots straight for the Cuban singing style of Salsa legends like Willie Colon or Ruben Blades.

It is likely that these Salsa legends would get a pretty big charge out of a South Korean singer so effectively aping their style and doing it with such gusto.

The result is a surprisingly authentic sound, yet also with something new.

"First Impression" is taken from the 11th Lee Ki Chan album "Twelve Hits," released on May 24.

Comprised entirely of cover songs from the 1970s to today, the eclectic album even features an appearance by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra.

In working with musicians and styles far from what on would expect from most Korean artists, Lee Ki Chan has found a sound that is both original and familiar. It is powerful, but controlled.

He has the force of a young man, but also seems to embody the age-acquired wisdom shared by so many Salsa luminaries.

Known to be one of South Korea's most daring musical alchemists, blending jazz, rap and reggae, Lee has done himself one better here: creating something new built by what is a clearly a deep respect and understanding of the past.

Isn't that what the best musicians are supposed to do?

Check out the music video for Lee Ki Chan's new salsa-infused single "First Impression" RIGHT HERE