The countdown unveiled by Justin Timberlake on Friday lapsed last night, revealing that it was, as rumored, counting down to the release of the singer's first new single in six years: "Suit & Tie (feat. Jay-Z)."

In addition to the song, JT posted an "Open Letter to you (the fans)," in which he promised "no more teasing" — before proceeding to tease a brand new studio album.

The letter is transcribed, in part, below:

This year is an exciting one for me. As you probably have heard through the "grapevine," I'm gearing up for a big 2013.

Back in June of last year, I quietly started working on what is now, my next journey with that thing I love called MUSIC.

The inspiration for this really came out of the blue and to be honest, I didn't expect anything out of it. I just went into the studio and started playing around with some sounds and songs. It was probably the best time I've had in my career... Just creating with no rules and/or end goal in mind and really enjoying the process.

What I came up with is something I couldn't be more excited about! It is full of inspiration that I grew up listening to and some newfound muses that I've discovered along the way.

I'm calling it "The 20/20 Experience," and it's coming out this year.

I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed making it.

That's all I'm giving you for now... I know, I know! Again, with the teasing!!!
Get ready. This is going to be fun (well, at least it is for me).

Though Timberlake doesn't confirm it outright, the "grapevine" has it that 20/20 was produced by Timbaland, and contains at least 20 new tracks.

JT will be doing some producing of his own, helping Beyoncé follow up 2011's 4 along with Timbaland, Pharrell, and Dream.

[audio via AudioMack]