Credits: Liverpool’s New Contenders Tap Into a Classic Sound with a Modern Spark
You’ve probably been here before—there’s a buzz, whispers of the next big thing, a surge of social media hype—and then the inevitable crash of disappointment when it turns out to be all surface and no soul. New Merseyside combo Credits could easily have fallen into that trap. Instead, they’ve emerged with substance, style, and a generous helping of Scouse swagger.
Their debut headline show at Liverpool’s ARC, tucked away in the effortlessly cool Baltic Triangle, was nothing short of a revelation: a night of lush harmonies, irresistible hooks, and magnetic stage presence that marked them as genuine contenders.
Musically, Credits are rooted in a tradition that reaches far beyond the banks of the Mersey. Their sound—rich in layered vocals, melodic interplay, and acoustic textures— draws a direct line to the golden era of West Coast rock. Think the halcyon days of the late ’60s and early ’70s, when harmony-driven icons like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, The Byrds, and America defined a generation. But this is no nostalgia act. Credits breathe new life into the genre, blending its warmth and musicality with a contemporary pulse that feels both vital and fresh.
The set opened with the shimmering The California Myth, a track that wouldn’t be out of place on CSN&Y Déjà Vu, all sun-dappled guitars and intricate vocal lines. Just as the crowd was settling into the groove, a brief glitch—onstage sound issues—paused the momentum. Lesser bands might have stumbled, but Credits held their composure. It was a revealing moment, showcasing not just professionalism but quiet, assured confidence. By the time they launched into their current single Your Favourite Song—a true standout— order had been fully restored. Picture The Doobie Brothers at London’s legendary Vortex Club: intimate, dynamic, and laced with just the right amount of bite.
What really sets Credits apart is the warmth that radiates from their performance. Frontman Tom’s vocals are clean, plaintive, and emotionally resonant, but it’s the interplay between the band members—both musical and personal—that elevates the whole experience. Each harmony feels lived-in, each instrumental break intentional. They’re not performing at being a band; they are a band—and they own any stage they step onto.
Having cut their teeth supporting local legends like Shack, this headlining slot was a clear step forward—and they passed with flying colours. The ARC crowd responded with real enthusiasm, a sign that this won’t be their last time at the top of the bill. If their trajectory continues, Credits won’t just be playing to packed rooms—they’ll be part of the broader conversation about the enduring legacy of the sound they so clearly love.
Yes, we’ve seen the hype cycle before. But this time, it feels different. Credits don’t just echo the past—they channel it, evolve it, and make it unmistakably their own. Buckle up. This is going to be one hell of a ride.
Follow @creditsband on Instagram for updates.
Steve Kinrade
