In a crowded alt-pop landscape, Big Ideas rejuvenates us with buoyant pop and vivacious genre-blending. Remi Wolf hurls forward from the bygone bedroom-pop era with her most fun album yet, adding legitimacy and refinement to her pop forward, decade-mingling sound. Self described as “funky soul pop” that seeks to “rewrite the rules of pop,” it is overloaded with reference to the most danceable hits of the past. This ADHD style medley showcases Gen Z’s tinkering spirit when it comes to their immediately-accessible-via-Youtube past. Her refreshing revivalism often renders as funky, floor-filling grooves — like on the standout pre-release, “Toro”.

“Cinderella” and “Toro,” were amazing early release treats, with the full LP giving us standouts like “Kangaroo,” “Pitiful,” and a house-inspired bonus track, “Slay Bitch.” Written while on a 2-year, emotional head-trip of a tour, they are weighted with vulnerable lyrics with the exception of the pitched-up falsetto on “Slay,” a detour into boogie funk that provides a much-better wrap- up then “Just the Start,” a boring and tacky folk imitation about, ironically, becoming boring and tacky. There are a few similarly dull songs that, ultimately, are outshone by the highs on this exhilarating summer release.

Remi Wolf’s unique genre-blending sound is a hallmark of her artistry, seamlessly combining elements of pop, pop punk, funk, and soul into a cohesive and exhilarating experience. This vibrant amalgamation creates a soundscape that feels both nostalgic and fresh, tapping into the energy of pop punk’s rebelliousness, funk’s infectious grooves, and soul’s heartfelt expression.

The sound is big. With almost orchestral arrangements, psychedelic flair and an impeccable sense of funky rhythm, it was a shock to the alt-pop scene. Back in 2019-2020, songs like “Photo I.D” and “Hello Hello Hello” were examples of infectious bubblegum pop exploding with whimsical, “funky soul” expressionism — carving out an inimitable lane with their Tiktok virality and feature on the triple A racing game Forza Horizon 5. On Big Ideas, this sound crescendos by not setting its feet firmly anywhere. She’s quick to admit to this flightiness and uncertainty on the intro track, “Cinderella.” “So quick when I switch it up,” she sings, later drooping into anxiety by singing “Is there something wrong with the way that I’m designed / Can’t find comfort in anything.”

This authenticity and candor — amidst the carefree ecstasy — might be abnormal for a pop musician, but not for Wolf. There’s never been a dishonest moment in her career, coming out of niche internet stardom and retaining her staunchly independent spirit, even in the spotlight. There’s something to be said about retaining that creative clarity, adding to an already impressive musical acumen. Even if you don’t like cheery pop music, you have to respect Remi Wolf as a resounding figure, and a burgeoning revisionist of pop — someone articulate enough to elevate genre-tinkering into marketable, stadium level pop.

Despite a few underwhelming filler tracks on Big Ideas, it is ultimately a vibrant expression of Wolf’s kaleidoscopic taste profile, one that ultimately looks backward, perhaps because there is not much future promised to this generation. With its mishmash of pop and funk sensibilities and anxious lyrics, it makes you wonder about the state of pop music: is this what the supposed sound of “the moment” sounds like now? Is there less of a push forward and more of a sense of revivalism?

The highs on the album are exhilarating, offering a refreshing take on what pop music can be. Remi Wolf’s fearless eclecticism makes her a clear, unique and compelling voice in the industry. Big Ideas not only revitalizes the alt-pop scene but also sets a new standard for creative expression and authenticity. With another successful foray, listeners are left thirsting for more exploration from Remi.

Order Big Ideas by Remi Wolf HERE