In this new entry in our ‘Diamonds In The Rough’ category, we would like to introduce you to artist Rico Friebe and his brand new album titled Pain Matters.
The surprise release of Pain Matters, the fourth studio album from German singer-songwriter Rico Friebe, hits like an emotional tidal wave. Rico, also known by his alias Rico Puestel, has always been an artist unafraid to challenge himself musically and personally. With Pain Matters, he brings an intensely raw, meditative, and bold collection of songs that emerged from a deep, unexpected journey of self-reflection.
Much like his previous work Anthems For A Lost Generation, this album is a product of profound personal experience, driven by an overwhelming sense of emotional turmoil. But instead of dwelling in darkness, Rico harnesses the abyss to create something striking and transformative. The result is a deeply resonant album that speaks to both his own struggles and universal themes of pain, sacrifice, and the human condition.
The album opens with “Intro Out,” a mysterious track that ties into an unreleased song, a connection known only to the person on the album artwork. This enigma adds a layer of intrigue to the record, as listeners are left wondering what hidden narrative lies beneath. From there, Pain Matters takes us on an emotional rollercoaster, with tracks like “Apathy” and “Caitiff (The Yellow Song)” exploring the complexities of disconnection and inner conflict. The haunting “Growing Pains” and the atmospheric “Loophole” provide moments of reflection, while the powerful “Sacrifice” serves as the album’s emotional core, delving into the difficult decisions and compromises we all face.
As the album progresses, Rico balances personal introspection with broader societal commentary. “Harm Any” and “The Verge Of Change” reflect his ability to address deeper philosophical questions, all while maintaining a deeply personal tone. By the time we reach “Plus” and “Take, Take, Take,” the album’s themes come full circle, showcasing his mastery of blending raw emotion with bold sonic experimentation.
Pain Matters is a culmination of Rico’s prolific songwriting streak, having written and recorded over 200 songs between September 2022 and early 2024. Known for his wide-ranging musical exploration, from Trip-Hop to French House, Rico demonstrates his versatility yet again. For fans of his previous works like Jenni and Word Value, this album is both a continuation and a bold departure, showing a new facet of an ever-evolving artist.
Rico Friebe’s Pain Matters isn’t just an album—it’s a reflection of life’s rawest moments, bound together by thoughtful, meditative songwriting.
Listen to the full project below: