If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether you’re the star of your own story or just the punchline in someone else’s sitcom, Ava Valianti’s new single Laugh Track might just be the anthem you didn’t know you needed. Released on April 4, 2025, across all major streaming platforms, this introspective indie pop track sees the rising star merge dark humor with raw vulnerability, offering a hauntingly relatable look at self-doubt, identity, and the pressure to perform.
Ava, who first made waves with her debut single Bubble Wrap in 2023, has quickly become known for her ability to weave deeply personal lyrics with a unique sound that blends Olivia Rodrigo’s poignant storytelling and Lana Del Rey’s mesmerizing melodies. With Laugh Track, she continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, mixing confessional themes with an infectious pop edge. The result is a track that’s both emotionally rich and sonically captivating, creating a sound that feels familiar yet refreshingly new.
Laugh Track explores the overwhelming feeling of being “on” all the time — like living in a TV show where every mistake is amplified, and every decision feels like it’s being judged. Ava frames this experience in a way that resonates deeply, drawing parallels to iconic TV moments. The song’s lyrics evoke the self-awareness of characters like Ted Mosby from How I Met Your Mother and the existential pressure of The Truman Show, where the protagonist’s every move is under scrutiny. “Am I in control of my own story, or am I just playing a part?” Ava asks, capturing the essence of that ever-present fear of being seen as nothing more than a caricature in a world that demands performance.
The cleverness of Laugh Track lies in how Ava combines the rawness of her emotions with a playful, almost satirical tone. The concept of a laugh track — typically used in sitcoms to tell the audience when to laugh — serves as a metaphor for the constant need to perform for others, whether they’re cheering for you or laughing at you. It’s a theme that will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like they were trapped in a role they didn’t choose, struggling with the conflict of wanting to be seen authentically while grappling with the expectations placed upon them.
Musically, Laugh Track blends upbeat, driving rhythms with introspective moments, keeping listeners engaged while still leaving room for reflection. The production is polished yet raw, allowing Ava’s voice to shine through with a clarity that matches the emotional weight of the song. Her vocal delivery is as confessional as it is commanding, perfectly complementing the lyrical themes of questioning one’s place in the narrative.
Since her debut, Ava has steadily built a reputation for her honest songwriting and captivating performances. With multiple singles that have earned airplay on over 130 radio stations nationwide and two New England Music Award nominations under her belt, she is well on her way to becoming a household name in the indie pop scene. Laugh Track further cements her status as an artist to watch, with her ability to turn vulnerability into an empowering and infectious anthem.
To celebrate the release of Laugh Track, Ava will perform at the iconic Charlie’s Kitchen in Harvard Square (Cambridge) on April 5th, 2025, from 9-11pm. This intimate performance promises to be a special one, with Ava offering a live rendition of her new single along with a setlist of fan favorites. For anyone lucky enough to attend, it will be an opportunity to experience Ava’s musical evolution firsthand in a cozy yet energetic setting.
With Laugh Track, Ava Valianti proves that she’s not just an artist — she’s a storyteller, unafraid to explore the complexities of identity and self-perception in a world that often demands more than we can give. The song is a reminder that, even in our most self-doubting moments, we’re all more than just the punchline in someone else’s story. We are the protagonists in our own narrative, and Laugh Track encourages us to take control and rewrite our scripts.
