"'Talking Like An Elephant' is a masterclass in indie-folk production."

W: Lorraine McQuillan I: Honnie Joward

NEW SINGLE '' TALKING LIKE AN ELEPHANT '' OUT NOW

Mike Ryan and The Salty Oranges are a dynamic five-piece band hailing from the Wirral, brought together by a shared love for music discovered at local open mic nights. The line-up features Mike Ryan on vocals and guitar, Mozin Ali on keys and vocals, Mike Eastaugh on bass, Noah Eastaugh on drums, and James Ryan on lead guitar. Over the last couple of years, the group has enjoyed a steady rise through the Merseyside music scene, graduating from intimate local spots to prestigious stages such as the Liverpool Philharmonic Music Room and Future Yard in Birkenhead.

Describing their sound is a challenge even for the band, as they draw from a vast and eclectic well of individual influences. While they prefer not to be pigeonholed, their music is often characterised as a blend of indie-folk and alt-pop. Within their "melting pot" of sound, listeners can hear traces of shoegaze, gospel, country, and soul. This diversity allows them to fit almost anywhere in the musical landscape, transitioning seamlessly from tender, piano-driven waltzes to high-energy indie-pop anthems that showcase their strong sense of dynamics.

"From Eminem rap circles to glitter-sprayed beards: the unpredictable energy of the Wirral’s rising stars."

The band’s pre-show energy is as unpredictable as their setlist. Their routine often depends on the "vibe" of the green room; before a major show at the Music Room, they found themselves in a circle rapping along to Eminem’s Lose Yourself to build adrenaline. On other occasions, such as their February appearance at Future Yard, the preparation involved a more aesthetic approach with plenty of glitter spray for their hair and beards. Despite the fun and games, they remain professional, with Mike and Mozin committing to extensive vocal warm-ups to ensure they are stage-ready.

The story behind the band's name is surprisingly literal. It originated during an early rehearsal when Mozin was snacking on a plate of oranges seasoned with salt. The name initially served as a title for their WhatsApp group, but it eventually stuck. Interestingly, they waited until the release of their single "Talking Like An Elephant" to officially adopt the moniker, playfully noting they didn't want to use it for their previous track, The Lemon Trees by the Sea, for fear of appearing entirely obsessed with citrus fruits.

The band’s latest single is the definitive proof of their self-confessed "perfectionist" streak. After three months and thirty-five different versions, "Talking Like An Elephant" emerges as a masterclass in indie-folk production.

The track serves as the perfect introduction to the "Salty Oranges" era. It manages to balance the weight of its title with a delicate, layered arrangement that feels both expansive and intimate. Bassist and producer Mike Eastaugh has polished this track to a mirror finish, yet it retains a vital, "human" pulse—something the band strives for in an increasingly digital world. The interplay between Mike’s earnest vocals and Mozin’s melodic keys provides a grounded heart to a song that feels ready for much larger stages.

At the core of the band is a deep passion for the craft of songwriting. Mike Ryan views himself primarily as a songwriter, finding a "supernatural" joy in the moment a new song appears from nowhere.

Fans can expect a steady stream of new material throughout 2026. The band plans to release a series of singles, allowing each track the space to make an impact before potentially forming a full album. Alongside new recordings, they have several live dates on the horizon, including a headline show at Future Yard on 6th June as part of a 471 Records showcase. Influenced by legends like The Beatles and Radiohead, and having previously collaborated with Bill Ryder-Jones, Mike Ryan and The Salty Oranges are focused on making the most of every moment and continuing their hard-earned momentum.