Step Inside Remi’s Fun House Where ‘Big Ideas’ Come to Life!
If a confetti cannon exploded in a candy shop, it would sound just like Remi Wolf’s sophomore album, Big Ideas. This indie pop dynamo returns with a vibrant swirl of psychedelic sounds that move and shake with a “don’t-give-a-f*ck” spirit, expanding her already eclectic palette with even more experimentation. Wolf solidifies her trailblazing status in the soul-pop-funk genre by delivering a record that celebrates her passions, fantasies and values with a contagious energy that's way too fun not to love.
Wolf’s music is a kaleidoscope of slinky ’70s and ’80s funk, soulful musings and folksy charm. With Big Ideas, she’s doing what she does best: crafting brash, explosive pop that’s brimming with catchy, sometimes unconventional lyrics and a healthy dose of self-reflection. This album jostles with brilliant songcraft, showcasing her rapid growth as an artist and standing up well against the high bar set by her debut.
The first five tracks of Big Ideas were released as singles, sparking excitement for this electric album. These songs showcase her creative freedom, fantastical themes, and genre-bending sound.
The opening track and first single, “Cinderella” sets the tone with jubilant horns and poking whistles, creating a breezy jam that has been my go-to dance-in-the-bedroom song since its release. She sings:
“I can be yellow, I can rearrange by the afternoon / And I’m purple, so quick when I switch it up”
This first line highlights the playful, chameleon-like spirit that all Remi fans know and love. The celebratory horns and Donna Summer-esque whistles make it feel like leading a summer city parade.
Track two, “Soup” takes a thumping, reverb-heavy ‘80s synth-pop route. This desperate plea for a lover to stay is overlaid with a shiny, glittering filter, padded drums and shimmering production. Reflecting on the push and pull of partnership with a knowing wink she sings:
“I can’t help but make it about me / When you and I are together”
The remainder of the singles each bring their own unique flavor to the album. “Motorcycle” touches on the difficult dichotomy of wanting a normal life while desiring a more carefree existence, with gorgeous, bluesy guitar and self-harmonizing that make this track a standout. “Toro” is a cheeky bop with an ‘80s influence that conveys a raunchy encounter in a coy manner. Wolf belts out:
“I’m not worried about the sound / We’re waking up the people down the hall /
You’re a bull, and I can’t help but say, ‘Toro! Toro!’”
It’s light, sensual, and utterly irresistible.
The last single and track five, “Alone in Miami” builds to a rousing crescendo, adding another layer of depth to the album’s vibrant tapestry. What truly stands out on this track is Wolf’s exceptional vocal performance. She pushes her voice to the limits, delivering heavy-throated, chest-supported belting during the chorus that leaves a lasting impression. The instrumental arrangement takes a turn towards indie-rock and it doesn’t disappoint, complementing her powerful vocals with its dynamic energy and intricate melodies. Together, they create a moment in the album that resonates long after the song ends.
Graphic by Sarah Dean Morales
Beyond the singles, Big Ideas is packed with gems that highlight Wolf’s range and creativity. Track six, “Cherries and Cream” is a psychedelic, acid-drenched dream where Wolf can’t resist a person she knows she shouldn’t have, singing with a wry grin in her voice:
“You're critical, but you taste like cherries and cream, Tangerine, avocado / Yeah, I'm allergic but I like it a lot”
Moving forward to “Kangaroo,” the verses are distorted and sound like they’re being sung through a radio. Each arrival at the chorus sees the distortion disappear, making its catchy [best/lyrics/tk] even more impactful. The melodic and memorable lyrics are feminine, danceable and assured to be screamed in concert.
Track eight, “Pitiful,” combines an underwater electric guitar with a lively tune, transforming themes of existential ennui and isolation into an unexpectedly enjoyable experience.
Transitioning to “Waves,” an upbeat mini epic ballad, I was immediately reminded of “Liquor Store” from her debut album, Juno. It seamlessly shifts from disco-funk pop to a slow acoustic lyrical track, which, in my opinion, makes it one of her best songs yet. The lyrics feel almost journal-inspired, with hints of reggae that take listeners on a wild ride down a rabbit hole, with lines like:
“Now I don’t want to party / And I don’t really want to work / Either way I’ll be lonely / Maybe I am cursed...”
In contrast, track 10, “When I Thought of You” features muted piano and buzzy guitar riffs, with a whimsical whistle straight out of a mid-2010s pop song. On the other hand, “Frog Rock” is a glitchy record scratch full of offbeat attitude and scathing takes on the people and environments around her. It has the same vibe as Wolf’s past EPs and Juno.
Track 12, “Just the Start” really took me by surprise, but it is definitely one of my favorites. It’s raw and vulnerable, with this charmingly lo-fi sound that feels like sitting around a campfire. Wolf lays bare her insecurities about her career and herself and sings:
“Yeah, I call myself an artist and sometimes I think it's true / I walk heavy across the water, I debunk myself to blue / Maybe if I get a motorbike my feet won't need a shoe”
The song feels like a rough sketch, not fully fleshed out, but that’s what makes it special — it captures a moment of honesty and introspection. There’s no denying the authenticity here. It’s like she’s letting us peek behind the curtain, showing us the fears and doubts she grapples with. It’s a reminder that beneath her bold persona, there are big feelings — sometimes scary, sometimes messy, but ultimately, real and human.
Closing the album, “Slay Bitch” is the bonus track we didn’t know we needed. It’s pure contemporary disco magic with helium pitch-shifting and punchy synth-pop vibes. It's the perfect note to end on, leaving listeners ready to hit replay.
Remi Wolf’s Big Ideas is a bold, brilliant follow-up to her debut. Each track is quirky, honest and bursting with energy, making this album a must-listen. So grab your headphones, find your favorite dance spot and let Remi Wolf take you on a colorful, musical journey. Trust me, bestie, you won’t regret it!
And if you’re looking to move your hips from left to right with Remi herself, her Big Ideas tour starts in September!
