FOOTBALLHEAD Crushing the Alternative Scene in Wisconsin

FOOTBALLHEAD stopped at X-Ray Arcade, in Cudahay, WI, and set a new tone for the local alternative scenes. This alternative-rock band took over Milwaukee and its surrounding areas on Saturday, March 29 with their captivating performance.

Rising Chicago alternative-rock band, FOOTBALLHEAD, rolled into an iconic local Midwest venue, on Saturday evening of March 29, during their Hope Your Flowers Die tour with Superbloom (NYC). The band arrived at X-Ray Arcade, in Cudahay, WI, following their hometown show, at another popular Midwest local venue, Cobra Lounge, the night prior. X-Ray Arcade is known for their 90’s themed arcade aesthetic; so, the group bringing their new spin on the nostalgic 90’s alternative-rock songs to the venue was seamlessly perfect for the night’s aesthetic.

The band delivered a fully energetic set filled with a variety of songs from their discography including “Crushing Me” and “Silver.” Not only did the band give an outstanding and engaging performance at X-Ray Arcade, but these authentic, kind-hearted, Chicago rockers and their audience members were nothing but respectful and inclusive to all individuals within their presence; anyone in attendance was given a space to exist freely, as they are, to enjoy the music. The band officially launched their career in 2022, at first solely by lead, Ryan Molen, but over the course of just three years have quickly risen into a full alternative-rock band. Between EPs, singles and full albums, this project has been non-stop since the start. The group most recently did a Live Audiotree Recorded EP this year, which is available to listen to on Spotify: here

As a young and growing, independent band, they have impressively already established a solid discography in such a short amount of time. This band is gaining traction quickly across many different regions before officially signing with a label. It is safe to say FOOTBALLHEAD is crushing the independent alternative-rock scene, especially in the Midwest, but definitely not limited to. The band has announced a multitude of exciting upcoming shows, including a full North American tour supporting One Step Closer alongside bands such as Bleed, Magnitude and more. This tour added extra dates on the East Coast with Koyo and DRAIN as well. FOOTBALLHEAD was also announced to open, an extremely high-demand show, as opening in act of support for The Used’s 25th Anniversary shows being held at House of Blues-Chicago. This group is about to crush the entirety of the alternative-rock scene’s expectations, one city at a time. 

I'm a Midwest-based photojournalist with a passion for live music photography, which I began at 14. I cover various genres, mainly alternative rock, emo, hardcore, and pop-punk bands. I have an Associate's in Sociology and plan to pursue a B.A. in PR/Communications. After 8 years in education, I’m now pursuing my creative career full-time!