Review and Photos – Remi Wolf at the Orpheum Theatre, Vancouver, September 14, 2024
As the house lights dimmed and smoke filled the stage at the historic Orpheum Theatre, the crowd erupted in a deafening cheer. Stage lights cut through the haze, and the crowd rose from their seats, straining to catch a glimpse of movement in the fog. Suddenly, to the tune of “Cherries & Cream,” Remi Wolf burst through to centre stage, instantly captivating the venue with her powerful vocals and infectious personality.
Wolf is a California-based singer who describes her music as “funky soul pop”. In a 2021 interview in Harper’s Bazaar, she stated she wants to “constantly try to innovate the sound of pop music” and “erase the rules of pop”. On this night, she proved to Vancouver that she was here to deliver on that promise. Remi commanded every inch of the stage, dancing with her joyous style and belting out notes that echoed through the enshrined walls of the Orpheum Theatre.
The setlist leaned heavily on songs from her latest 2024 album, Big Ideas, but she also treated the crowd to classics from her earlier EP I’m Allergic to Dogs! like “Guy” and “Disco Man”. Each song was a fresh experience, with Remi putting her twist on fan favorites. A soulful, bossa nova rendition of “Sexy Villain” showcased her range, and she even surprised the audience with an upbeat pop cover of the rock classic “Life is a Highway.” Always challenging herself, each show she invites the crowd to yell a word and a musical key resulting in a new song. The new hit: “Purple Raven” in E-flat Major was an exclusive treat for those lucky enough to be there.
Between songs, Wolf shared anecdotes and insights, giving fans a glimpse into the stories behind her music. She spoke about the surreal and isolating experience that inspired “Alone in Miami,” as well as the impact of her high school friend and collaborator, Jared Solomon, on her career. These moments of candor added depth to the show, revealing a more personal side of the charismatic performer.
Remi’s playful personality shone through every moment, whether she was belting out high notes, taking over on drums (and killer drum solo) for a track, or sharing intimate handshakes with the audience. It was clear that she was having just as much fun as the crowd.
Winding down the show Remi showed off her vocal talents using a voice reverb with one of her older tracks, before returning for an explosive encore playing her massive hits in “Soup” and “Photo ID”.
It was hard to stop grinning after being part of the exhilarating experience, one that those at the Orpheum will not soon forget.
Be the first to leave a comment.