Names Without Numbers – “Ping Pong Ball in a Concrete Room” [Song Review]

Omaha, Nebraska-based rock outfit Names Without Numbers has released their single, “Ping Pong Ball in a Concrete Room,” the second single from the band’s forthcoming EP, We Create Reality, set to drop on September 27th.

Vocalist/guitarist Ryan Cruickshank explains:

“This song is about the frenetic pace of life. Sometimes it feels like things are moving way too fast to stay on top of all your responsibilities.”

Names Without Numbers was formed by a group of friends and musicians whose sound has evolved from experimental emo and punk to a more polished brand of pop-rock. Made up of Dave Owens (guitar, vocals), Joel Schlegelmilch (bass), Jason Blayney (drums), and Cruickshank (vocals, guitars), they have shared the stage with Jimmy Eat World, Dashboard Confessional, Hey Mercedes, Hot Rod Circuit, Copeland, and Plain White T’s.

Opening on shiny guitars vaguely reminiscent of Tom Petty, “Ping Pong Ball in a Concrete Room” flows into a tight, catchy melody topped by layers of shimmering textures riding potent percussion. Lustrous harmonies give the tune burnished facets. A softly gleaming bridge culminates in a heavy, glossy outro.

Names Without Numbers, photo by Kyle Benecke

Brimming with glinting panache and beaucoup energy, Names Without Numbers delivers a bold, bright sound on their latest single.

Run Time: 3:26
Release Date: August 16, 2024
Record Label: Fair Vaux