Trent Reznor struggles with fears: Nine Inch Nails inspire in Vienna!

Trent Reznor struggles with fears: Nine Inch Nails inspire in Vienna!

The wait is over: Nine Inch Nails have finally played the Wiener Stadthalle after an eleven-year break. Frontman Trent Reznor, known for his tireless desire to create and his eventful life story, gave a deep insight when he returned to the stage. During the concert, which took place on June 28, 2025, Reznor said more than just a simple “Thank you” to his audience and openly admitted that he was tormented by anxiety and depression. Nevertheless, he was happy to lose himself in his music and to be on stage, which gave him a certain relief, he reported courier.

The atmosphere in the town hall was overwhelming. Reznor, who has now won two Oscars for his film scores alongside his musical partner Atticus Ross, once again demonstrated his passion for music, particularly during emotional moments such as the solo performance of "Right Where It Belongs." Surrounded by an impressive light show and a translucent net curtain, the band impressively demonstrated that their sound remains fascinating even three decades after their first album “Pretty Hate Machine”.

Innovative stage show and new sounds

The band opened the show on a small stage in the middle of the hall and moved to the main stage after three songs. The drummer Ilan Rubin only appeared as a projection on a net curtain. The setlist was a mix of classics and newly interpreted pieces. What was particularly striking was the technoid reinterpretation of some songs that Reznor performed with DJ Boys Noize. With the combination of synth pop, drum and bass and rock sounds, he drove the audience crazy, while the band's sound continued to be considered innovative and timeless.

One of the highlights of the evening was the powerful “March Of The Pigs,” which impressively showcased Nine Inch Nails’ emotional range. The show was rounded off with an acoustic performance of “Hurt”, which took on a whole new intensity thanks to Johnny Cash’s cover and was the crowning finale.

Trent Reznor's musical journey

Trent Reznor is a legend. His career has now spanned almost 25 years, during which he has experienced numerous ups and downs. It all started with the album “Pretty Hate Machine” in 1989. Despite a successful career, Reznor repeatedly struggled with personal crises and phases of inactivity. The period between “The Downward Spiral” and “The Fragile” was particularly difficult, during which he not only toured but also worked intensively on his creative work. The return to his roots and the struggles he has overcome have allowed his music to mature in recent years, so that his work appeals to more and more young and old generations, as on Grantland is to be read.

In addition, the cult film “Dead Ringers” by David Cronenberg deeply influenced Reznor, so he incorporated its eerie atmosphere into many of his songs. A brave step for an artist who is always looking for new sounds and forms of expression. In the podcast with Rick Rubin, Reznor describes his musical training as formative and highlights the influences of his youth. The courageous step of staying true to himself and integrating his experiences into the music pays off, as Reznor impresses not only on stage, but also as a successful soundtrack composer.

Fans have something to look forward to: Reznor announced that Nine Inch Nails will be going on a world tour later this year after the announcement of the tour dates had to be postponed due to the wildfires in Southern California, as on Loud sound is to be experienced. Will he then speak about his fears and hopes again with the same openness? In any case, the anticipation for the upcoming concerts is growing.