The duo of Niko Kapetan & Bailey Minzenberger, known as Friko, has made a significant mark on Chicago’s indie rock scene. Their full-length debut album, ‘Where we’ve been, Where we go from here,’ released on ATO Records, combines post-punk, chamber-pop, and experimental rock elements, elevating the music’s intensity through spirited gang vocals. With a poetic and explosive essence, the album resonates with raw emotions, offering a diverse range from heavy anthems to heartfelt ballads.
Established in 2019, Friko quickly established themselves at iconic Chicago venues such as the Metro, Empty Bottle, and Schubas Tavern. Their self-released EP, ‘Whenever Forever,’ in 2022 garnered critical acclaim, leading to their festival debut at Bonnaroo the following year. Renowned for their dynamic live performances, Friko aims to provide a mesmerizing emotional journey for their audience. Their album, ‘Where we’ve been, Where we go from here,’ mastered by Heba Kadry and engineered by Jack Henry and Scott Tallarida, reflects a profound sonic complexity inspired by Romantic-era classical music and avant-garde art-rock. Niko envisions their music as a catalyst for action, aiming to uplift listeners and inspire meaningful responses to their emotions.