Ryuichi Sakamoto is set to release his first solo album in six years.

12 takes in 12 new compositions by the Japanese artist and will be released in January to mark his 71st birthday. The album was recorded in his home city of Tokyo while he underwent treatment for stage four cancer. The titles of the album's tracks refer to their respective recording date, with the album intended to be released as a diary of sorts charting this period of Sakamoto's life.

In a statement about 12, the artist said that when he "finally 'came home' to my new temporary housing after a big operation, I found myself reaching for the synthesiser. I had no intention of composing something; I just wanted to be showered in sound. I'll probably continue to keep this kind of diary."

Ahead of the new album's release early next year, Sakamoto is scheduled to perform a solo piano concert at Tokyo's 509 Studio. Set to take place on December 10, the performance will be live-streamed with fans being given the chance to purchase a ticket to watch the stream. Find more information here.

Milan Records will release 12 on January 17, 2023.