Simon Cowell’s new seven-member boyband arrived in Edinburgh last night to mark their six-month anniversary and the release of their debut EP, “On Your Side.” Fans have been looking forward to this moment since the group began. As the band made their way to the venue, excited crowds filled the streets, hoping to see their favourite musicians.
The EP features catchy songs that highlight each member’s unique strengths and aim to bring fresh energy to pop music. Fans are already sharing their favourite tracks online, and the band is excited to celebrate this milestone with their growing fan base.
“On Your Side” was announced just six months after the group made their debut on Netflix’s Simon Cowell: The Next Act. The band is quickly becoming one of Britain’s most interesting new pop acts.
Cruz, Danny, Hendrik, John, Josh, Nicolas, and Seán spent eight months recording the EP in Los Angeles, London, Nashville, and Stockholm. The nine tracks include fan favourites like “Run My Way,” “Infinity (123),” “Angel,” and a cover of Djo’s “End Of Beginning.” There are also three new songs: “On Your Side,” “Us Against The World,” and “What Are We Now.”
The EP also includes stripped-back versions of “Angel” and “Run My Way.” These versions show a different side of the group’s music and highlight each member’s vocal talent. I think this is a great addition, and the stripped version of “Angel” is one of my favourite tracks on the EP.
A real highlight of the project is “Us Against The World,” which uses a part of Cutting Crew’s classic “(I Just) Died in Your Arms.” The song was produced by Savan Kotecha, Rami Yacoub, and Carl Falk. You might recognise them as the team behind some of One Direction’s biggest early hits, like “What Makes You Beautiful” and “Live While We’re Young.”
Another standout is the track “What Are We Now.” Julien Bunetta, who also worked with One Direction, produced this one. The song has real boyband pop energy and brings to mind some of 1D’s older songs, but with a fresh twist. Thanks to the production, it has a strong pop-rock dance beat that feels both new and a bit nostalgic. It’s made for a big stadium singalong.
Last night, the band played in Edinburgh as part of their first real headline tour, which started just over a week ago. After their earlier introduction shows this year, tickets for gigs in Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Bristol, London, and Dublin have already sold out.
This level of support shows how quickly December 10 has built a loyal fanbase. In just a few months, the band has reached over 26 million streams, 19 million YouTube views, and 3.3 million social media followers. Their debut singles are also among the top-selling vinyl releases in the UK this year.
Their success goes beyond streaming. The group has made a strong impact in the music industry. Earlier this summer, they played their first show at Ultra Teens Fest in Japan, performing for more than 12,000 people. Their talent and stage presence stood out, helping them make a name for themselves in live music. They are also set to play at major festivals like Summer Sonic and Reading & Leeds Festival, where they are likely to win over even more fans.
Commercial brands have noticed the group’s rising popularity. They recently launched an exclusive merchandise line with Primark, giving fans a chance to connect through branded clothes and accessories. Their debut single “Run My Way” has also gained attention, featuring in Toyota’s pan-European campaign for the Aygo X. This partnership demonstrates the song’s popularity and shows how the group is reaching a wider audience.
Although December 10 is often called a boy band, they bring extensive musical experience to the stage. Together, the seven members play 14 instruments, such as guitar, piano, bass, drums, harmonica, cajón, and clarinet. This variety adds a special energy to their live shows that goes beyond just choreography and catchy pop songs.
The members come from many different backgrounds. Their influences include artists like Freddie Mercury, Pearl Jam, Steve Lacy, Justin Bieber, Daft Punk, and Sabrina Carpenter. They represent communities in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Portugal, and have roots in Ireland, Brazil, India, Nigeria, and Jamaica.
The response from fans in Edinburgh shows strong support for the band. Just six months after forming, December 10 has already reached goals that many young bands work toward for years. Their single On Your Side is now available worldwide, and with several sold-out shows coming up, their momentum is only growing.
Last night at the Assembly Rooms, the show felt more similar to a reunion with old friends than a typical debut album launch. Fans sang every song, waved homemade signs, and lit up the room with their phone torches during the most emotional moments.
Between songs, the seven members talked about the past six months, thanked their supporters for sticking with them from the beginning, and said it felt like being in a dream to celebrate their debut EP while on tour. The stage was bursting with genuine happiness and cheer, making the night feel as much like a party with friends as a headline concert.
On Your Side, December 10’s debut EP, is now out on all top streaming outlets, plus on CD, cassette, and limited-edition vinyl. Fans can find more information, listen to the EP, and check the remaining dates for The Next Step UK and Europe tour on the band’s official platforms.
Words and show images by Kyan Gilfillan (@kgshoots_).
Cover image by Bartek Szmigulski