The beautifully chaotic eruption of sounds that is Remi Wolf’s 2024 album “Big Ideas” has been a vital part of my daily rotation since its release. The album’s sixth single, “Pitiful,” blends pop, indie, and experimental sounds — a true testament of Wolf’s unique, vibrant style.

The singer-songwriter captures the all-too-familiar ache of obsessing over someone who clearly isn’t reciprocating your feelings. She balances cheeky lyrics about relying on alcohol as a way to cope — “I love my wine, he is my friend/ When we go out he’s holding my hand” — with raw vulnerability: “Hit me like a truck/ …/ And this is just my luck/ Man, I feel so dumb.” 

What makes “Pitiful” so compelling is the contrast between the upbeat, almost whimsical production and the authenticity woven through the lyrics. The funky basslines and bright, layered instruments create an infectious energy, masking the sting of rejection within its lyrics. Wolf showcases her brilliance in generating this push-pull between humor and heartbreak, capturing the chaos of an unrequited yearning.

Listen to the rest of the playlist here!