Interview with Vienna Vienna
- Sabrina Shahryar
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Your latest EP, Entertain Me, blends chaos, humor, and existential reflection. What was the emotional or creative headspace you were in while making this project?
I was doing my best to summarize my life over the past year or so, my thoughts and feelings, the good, the bad and the freaky. I was interested in exploring new textures and grooves. I knew what I needed the most was songs to dance in my bedroom to.
What was your songwriting process like while creating the songs on Entertain Me?
I mostly started with the rhythm sections; once those were feeling right, and it came time to play guitar, I needed most to express freneticism. It’s an anxious world right now. In opposition, lyrically, I was more patient than usual. I took my time to find the right stories to tell, with the help of amazing creative partners, of course.
How did you come up with Entertain Me as the title of the EP?
It was originally intended to be titled "Entertainment" as a reference to Gang of Four. I spoke to Pete about that idea over Zoom, and he must have misheard me. He said something to the effect of "Wait, did you say Entertain Me? That's cool." Yes, I did, Pete, yes I did. There was more truth in it. These songs are roughly about a punishing longing for connection to something—yourself, community, love, wholeness. The state of things today allows for endless entertainment at the sacrifice of true togetherness. Hence, Entertain Me.
What was the creative process like behind the EP cover?
Candice and Bear made me look amazing and true to myself in a way I really felt I needed. There was loads of new wave inspirations for the look. In that photo, my expression is a little vacant, a little wanting. All dressed up to go nowhere, which I thought was fitting.
What song from the EP feels the most personal to you?
"Monarch" and "Company Hunting" are probably the most internally facing. "Monarch" to me summarizes the release of the anxious tension built up within the record. "Company Hunting" is focused on identifying the distractions that I sought to keep me from living in my reality.
Are there any songs from the EP you're looking forward to performing live?
"Molly" and "Coolest Thing Alive" are a blast; those guitar parts are tongue twisters. After recording, I realized just how tricky they were to sing and play at the same time, but as I practiced them, the syncopation between the parts felt amazing. Especially when I nail it, which I hope to do.
You’ll be performing on the Vans Warped Tour 2026. What excites you most about playing that tour?
So beyond excited to be on the same bill as so many killer acts. Whatever time I have in between soundcheck and showtime will be spent in the crowd. Warped Tour is a live music staple, and it’s an honour to be invited.
You’re also heading out on tour with Daisy Grenade. What kind of energy do you think fans can expect from those shows?
They can expect every last bit of energy I have! I’m going to play as many songs as I possibly can, if that means we have to play at double speed, so be it.
Is there a city or venue on the upcoming tour you’re especially excited to play?
I can't wait to go back to Chicago! I have so many friends out there, and it’s a city I truly love. I need to go to Portillo’s again!!
What do you hope fans feel when they leave one of your shows?
I hope people leave my shows feeling connected to themselves and the people around them. Also, maybe some relief! I’ve always written to prioritize shared catharsis, community and empowerment.
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