Remi Wolf

Remi Wolf Makes Room for Contradiction

The LA pop star fumbles her way into self-actualization or something close to it on sophomore album, Big Ideas.

by Ozioma Nwabuikwu

Remi Wolf is known for shamelessly exploring emotion, making for some of the most euphoric and weird discographies in progressive pop today. Ever since a dog-themed trio of EPs and her breakout debut album, Juno, spun her into worldview, the 28-year-old’s star has shown no signs of dimming. 

On Big Ideas, Wolf is of two minds. She welcomes deep reflection and acceptance on tracks like the sparkly self-love anthem, “Cinderella,” and the wry, country-inflected number, “Just The Start.” But she’s still a sucker for toxic, mismatched love affairs, choosing to blame herself when they inevitably end. Whether she’s wishing her lovers ill, like on the electronic “Frog Rock” or wishing they’d stay like on the explosive “Kangaroo,” she makes the irreverent revelry sound irresistible. Wanton desire, unrequited feelings, and moody escapism are split open over a groovy blend of rock, soul, and disco. As she muddles through it all, she reaches a middle ground, finding compassion for herself and others. 

Remi Wolf has big ideas and big feelings and she’s unfolded them all for us – and possibly herself – to discover through resonant vocals, genre busting melodies, and unfiltered lyrics. Take away the charm and the heartache and herein lies a woman who summons courage through vulnerability, again and again.