Remi Wolf’s latest, Big Ideas, places personal experience into a whirlwind of ’70s funk, electronic artistry and infectious energy. Electric catharsis is the theme of the record, and each track uncovers another level of funky alt-pop I didn’t think possible. ‘Cinderella’ was released as a single back in March and is the first track to combine synths and trumpets, injecting heaps of energy as Wolf mixes electropop with a unique groove to create a guaranteed arena hit.

Second song ‘Soup’ is about everything, except soup. The title feels somewhat random, yet fits the record’s spontaneous aura perfectly. Wolf’s vulnerable lyricism explores the push and pull of partnership, making fun of the expectation to be completely selfless, “I can’t help but make it about me when you and I are together”. By throwing in a line about soup, Wolf downplays the serious themes of the songs, diverting listeners toward its danceable beat.

Released as a single in May, ‘Toro’ is fuelled by catharsis as Wolf’s shouty lyrics permeate the track. “Magic and guitar, you know what I’m talking about” is spoken before the vocals begin, perfectly capturing what this record has felt like. Wolf does not conform to the constraints of the Pop genre; she has found her own style and voice, which she expresses as magic and guitar.

One of my personal favourites is ‘Kangaroo’. It’s somewhat distorted during the verses, as if the lyrics are being sung through a radio. During each arrival towards the chorus Wolf repeats that she is “talking my big ideas” before the distortion is eradicated and the catchy chorus resumes. The track’s melodic and memorable lyrics reminded me of Chappell Roan; truly feminine, danceable, and assured to be screamed in concert.

Yet, Wolf’s penultimate track ‘Just the Start’ sees a switch from this insatiable energy to a folksy beat, similar to The Moldy Peaches’ hit ‘Anyone Else But You’. Wolf is alone with her guitar and this soothing melody explores indecisiveness, ambivalence about her status as an artist, heartbreak and the future. This folk track is satisfying in its diffusion of energy, although I love the intensity of the record, this was a much-needed acoustic as Wolf addresses the themes of the earlier songs in a moment of folkish peace.

Wolf’s ability to combine and fluctuate between genres is what makes this record stand out from other alt-pop contenders: it is quite literally magic and guitar. Her astounding vocals alongside the album’s experimental arrangements give it an exceptional edge which I have never heard before.