Footballhead are back with a new single, and honestly, “Diversion” feels like one of those tracks you don’t just listen to once.
The Chicago alt rock band have just dropped the song alongside a music video, giving us another taste of their upcoming album Weight of The Truth, out March 20 via Tiny Engines. If you caught previous single “Used To Be,” think bigger hooks, thicker guitars, and a real sense of momentum this time around.
“Diversion” leans into that sweet spot between modern alt rock and nostalgic 90s influence, packed with driving power chords and a chorus that hits straight away. It’s catchy without feeling forced, emotional without getting overly dramatic, and polished without losing its grit. Even Nick Hexum of 311 has already called it a potential modern rock hit, which says a lot.
Lyrically, guitarist and vocalist Ryan Nolen frames the track around self progress and tuning out the noise of everything happening around you. It’s about recognising your own growth, staying grounded, and realising that forward motion doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. It gives the song an uplifting edge while still keeping that reflective alt rock feel.
What really stands out is how confident Footballhead sound here. “Diversion” feels like a band locking into their identity, taking what worked before and pushing it further. There’s a clarity to the songwriting, a punch to the production, and a sense that they know exactly where they’re headed.
The track lands ahead of Weight of The Truth, their second full length following 2024’s Overthinking Everything, and if this single is any indication, the new record is shaping up to be a big step forward. Twelve tracks deep, it promises a mix of heartfelt lyrics and hook heavy rock that bridges early 2000s nostalgia with a modern edge.
After touring with bands like Hot Mulligan, The Used, Taking Back Sunday and Senses Fail, plus making their Riot Fest debut last year, Footballhead now head out supporting Ben Quad this spring. Everything about this release feels perfectly timed.
If you’re into alternative rock with substance, melody, and a throwback heart, “Diversion” is absolutely worth hitting play on.
