Well, this isn’t “Work Bitch,” now is it?

Which is precisely why Britney Spears’ new single, “Perfume,” the second peek at her upcoming eighth (and most personal) studio album, Britney Jean, passes the smell test. Amazing what an actual melody and lyrics of some emotional depth can do to make one care. Credit the presence of pop’s current workhorse Sia, who co-wrote “Perfume” with Britney, and whose influence is writ large on the ballad.

“‘Perfume’ is incredibly special to me because it hits close to home, and I think the story is relatable to everyone,” Britney told E!. “Everyone’s been through an insecure moment in a relationship that’s left them vulnerable and I think this song captures that.”

Will.i.am produced “Perfume,” which I can’t quite compute, because it’s so far from unlistenable. This is the new Britney I’ve been waiting for.

Purchase Britney Spears – “Perfume” via iTunes.