We are beyond privileged to be present in a time where music is all about, and genuinely promoting the success of, females in the industry. Where Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter have been given the spotlight after working endlessly for years, and Reneé Rapp has taken her fame to new heights, it's time to continue this and celebrate one of the most consistent, authentic, and talented women on the scene. Of course, it is Remi Wolf.
Wolf's sophomore album, 'Big Ideas', pushes boundaries and exhibits all things weird and wonderful. It is not an understatement to state that every song is sonically different, as though she has placed her hand in the sweet box of genres and built a world and story around what was selected.
'Soup' has to take the top spot for its ability to instill you with the desire to dance. This is a delicious pop track, not just because of its name. Overall, the song is infused with serotonin and begs you to let loose. Something about her cadence is addictive and it is impossible to listen to this just once. It is truly a treat to the ears and has been non-stop played in our household.
For any housemate that has been affected by hearing the lyrics If you give me your keys, I'll go and pick up the soup repeatedly, this is an official apology.
The only thing that could make 'Soup' even better is the live performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, which elevated her already insane vocals and intensified the feelings of the track. Remi Wolf could turn a stranger into a fan with that one performance. There is a huge amount of respect to be had for any artist who can sound stronger live in comparison to their studio vocals, and Remi has nailed it, a true powerhouse.
I think her music gives me an alter ego that is leaps and bounds more confident than the soul I actually possess. If I play this album before a stressful day, suddenly I can strut away and get on with it... and I'm not a natural strutter. It is musical escapism at its finest.
One of the strengths of this album is the ability to make the listener feel good about themselves. 'Toro' is a prime example of this.
It is raunchy and theatrical, and it gives the listener a sense of empowerment. It is an unapologetic and frank song, in turn allowing the listener to walk away just as self-assured.
Wolf tells you exactly what she wants with uncensored lyrics of desire, which is only heightened by the delightfully raspy voice adding to this overall sense of urgency. Wolf's lack of subtlety on this track is refreshing and well-executed.
'Big Ideas', as a name for the album, is not a hyperbole. The change in direction, pace, and amount of variation within just thirteen tracks is greatly impressive. We experience big synth-pop energy in 'Soup', an alternative feel to 'Cherries & Cream', and psychedelic and indie rock influences throughout 'Pitiful' and 'Frog Rock'. We also see a stripped-back guitar track, 'Just the Start', which lets Wolf's vocals stand front and center as she commentates her own journey and things on her mind. It feels candid and a refreshing break from the eccentric energy seen throughout the track list. 'When I Thought Of You' also feels highly underrated and if you only get a chance to listen to a couple of tracks from the album, this should 100% make the cut.
Remi Wolf has provided something for everyone with this album and has shown herself as a free-spirited storyteller with a vivid imagination and ability to bring these ideas to life. Alongside its brilliant production, it has also allowed her talent as a vocalist to shine.
This is a respectful request, or manifestation, for a Remi Wolf x Raye collaboration if possible. As two of the strongest vocalists currently releasing music, it would change the world as we know it if they appeared on the same record. Just a big idea.
Words by Eliz (Blonde Vibrations)
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