Japanese actor and singer Teppei Koike has released his first solo album Pieces, after a six-year career in showbiz.
Osaka-born Teppei's career started when he won the 14th Junon Super Boy Contest in 2001. He then formed duo WaT with Wentz Eiji, which achieved instant success when they released their first single Boku no Kimochi soon after signing to Universal Music in 2005.
Their fame increased when Teppei appeared on the popular drama Gokusen 2. Enjoying his popularity, Teppei embarked on individual music projects this year.
The resulting album is a delight that is sure to win fans' supports. Consisting of 12 tracks all composed by the star, it is a collection of rock and pop pieces with uplifting lyrics - a perfect reflection of Teppei's hunky boy-next-door image.
While Teppei's vocals are nothing special, the piano, guitars and brass combine to create a sound that is hard to dislike.
Opening track Sonna Anata Ni opens the album with a bang. It is followed by My Brand New Way, a less powerful but equally enjoyable track.