EXO’s SUHO Returns With the Melancholic Single ‘Grey Suit’

Marking his first musical project after fulfilling his mandatory military responsibilities, EXO’s leader SUHO makes a melancholic comeback with “Grey Suit.” Leading the EP of the same title, the latest release marks the vocalist’s second EP following his 2020 mini-album Self-Portrait.

Co-written by SUHO alongside Cho Yun Kyoung, Oi and Park Seul Gi, “Grey Suit” is a progressive rock track (reminiscing British rock) with an emotive string arrangement. Constructing a simple yet crispy blend of percussion and guitar sounds, the singer rustles up a sentimental space, allowing the pensive lyricism to flourish and bloom. In particular, the contrast between the track’s dynamic rock arrangement and SUHO’s melodious vocal performance weaves a delightful listening experience without overpowering one another.

Deeply rooted in metaphors, the songwriters draw a parallel between colors and emotions to narrate the tale of loneliness and hope. With grey being linked to isolation and nostalgia stemming from bitter-sweet memories of A past relationship, the first half of the track metaphorically discusses how the color grey is slowly paining the protagonist’s world; “This grey is spreading sorrowfully throughout my memory/ My heart is trapped in the day I let you go.” As the track enters its final lap, the protagonist crosses paths with their former partner and experiences a shift in their universe. What was once grey and lifeless has now been painted over with bright hues, signifying hope, warmth and companionship. In an ever-so vulnerable state, the protagonist pleas for their partner to return to their life; “Show me all the colors of the world/ Please paint some colors to my dull heart/ We are together again and in front of us.”

The music video utilizes still frames to symbolize how life comes to a standstill upon the departure of a loved one. From rain to a film filter overlaying the visuals, “Grey Suit’s” music video is as melancholic and gloomy ad the track’s lyricism. 

SUHO’s sophomore EP Grey Suit comprises six tracks- “Morning Star,: “Hurdle,” Decanting,” “Bear Hug,” “Moment” and the title track “Grey Suit.”