Should we get numb to it?

Friko is an exciting new band emerging from Chicago's vibrant indie rock scene. They have quickly made a name for themselves with their emotionally raw and musically dynamic approach. The duo, consisting of Niko Kapetan on vocals and guitar and Bailey Minzenberger on drums, channel the energy and artistry of their city's storied music history while carving out a sound that's entirely their own. Their debut album, Where We’ve Been, Where We Go From Here, released on ATO Records in February 2024, is a testament to their ability to balance delicate introspection with explosive, cathartic moment 

Here’s a track-by-track breakdown:

The album kicks off with the title track, "Where We've Been," a gentle opening that begins with sparse guitar and vocals before blossoming into a richer, layered sound. It sets the tone for the album’s dynamic range, showcasing Friko's skill in building emotional tension and release. 

What makes "Crimson to Chrome" stand out is its dynamic structure. Friko seamlessly shifts from moments of controlled intensity to quieter, introspective sections, keeping listeners engaged and on edge. The offbeat rhythmic flourishes add a surprising twist to the song’s otherwise punchy indie rock foundations, giving it a unique sense of movement and unpredictability. 

 "Crashing Through," the lead single, injects a burst of energy with its driving rhythms and soaring chorus. The track’s frenetic pacing and unexpected shifts highlight the band’s creative edge, blending indie rock with elements of art-pop. It’s a bold statement early on in the record.  

"For Ella" pulls the listener into a quieter, more reflective space. The track is deeply personal, its understated verses swelling into an emotional crescendo, illustrating Friko’s talent for crafting songs that feel both intimate and expansive. 

 "Chemical" stands out for its intricate rhythms and unpredictable structure. The track brims with small details—quirky beats, subtle melodic shifts—that reward repeated listens. It’s a great example of Friko’s ability to keep listeners on their toes without losing a sense of cohesion. 

Distorted horns add a unique texture, complementing the introspective lyrics that explore themes of memory and permanence, notably in the refrain describing statues as "memories made of stone." The track builds to an abrasive section, introducing a burst of energy before transitioning into a calmer outro. This progression mirrors the emotional depth of the lyrics, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience. 

While some listeners may find the track's slower tempo less immediately engaging, its reflective nature adds a layer of complexity to the album, showcasing the band's commitment to exploring diverse sonic landscapes. Overall, "Until I'm With You Again" enriches the album's narrative by providing a contemplative moment that highlights Friko's dynamic range that revolves around longing, loss, and the passage of time. The song captures an emotional sense of separation and yearning, as if someone is reaching out to reconnect with a person or a moment that feels distant. 

The track's structure is meticulously crafted, with the initial verses creating a sense of anticipation that culminates in a powerful chorus. With main themes of emotional exhaustion and the struggle to cope with overwhelming feelings, the song explores the tension between numbness and release. It shows how, when faced with life’s challenges, people often suppress emotions to survive. Lyrically, the song suggests a cycle of trying to adapt or desensitize to difficult experiences while still yearning for a release or resolution. 

This closing track serves as a poignant and introspective finale. The song has a lullaby-like quality, with its gentle acoustic arrangement providing a soothing backdrop to Niko Kapetan's raw and emotive vocals. This stripped-down approach allows the listener to fully engage with the song's reflective nature, creating a sense of intimacy and closure as growth can be bittersweet. 

Throughout the album, Friko moves effortlessly between anthemic rockers and vulnerable ballads, always maintaining a sense of urgency and purpose. Tracks alternate between quiet desperation and calm release, often culminating in moments of grandeur that feel earned, not forced.

In Where We’ve Been, Where We Go From Here, Friko delivers a debut full of heart, creativity, and promise. It’s an album that speaks to both the triumphs and uncertainties of young artists finding their voice, wrapped in a sound that’s equal parts raw and refined. With this release, Friko not only marks their place in the indie rock world but also signals that their journey is just beginning and is one worth following.

Review By Jillian Simpson                                                                                                                               November 17, 2024