Another new signing from Marty Scott’s legendary Jem Records, The Gold Needles, who hail from Hull, U.K., are arbiters of 60’s-influenced psychedelic/power-pop prove with an album that one can automatically consider “summer friendly”. Through A Window is the band’s second full-length and from all I’ve heard on this release, they’ve taken very seriously being pupils of ’60’s pop masters such as The Monkees (covered here), The Byrds, The Beatles, etc.
For a band that hasn’t been around for too long, they certainly know the game well. “Do You Want What I Need?” is a perfect jumping-off point, with its energetic pace and crisp synth undertone, which gives a more modern feel than what might be expected; “Winning A Losing Game” has an ’80’s urgency, as opposed to their more ’60’s vibe but makes the track even more endearing – full of hooks and melody; “Sunset Girl” reminds me of The Rain Parade, circa Explosions In The Glass Palace, with buoyant acoustic guitars carrying the verses and “This Autumn Road” follows along in the same vein, which is sublime. A long-unreleased Monkees track, “I’m Gonna Try” (from The Birds, The Bees & The Monkees sessions) is given an upbeat feel (as opposed to Davy Jones’ more Broadway-style delivery) and fits perfectly among the originals that make up the collection.
I think it’s safe to say that in a just world, The Gold Needles would be on every radio – especially at this time of year. This album is the perfect accompaniment for a drive down to the beach…
https://thegoldneedles.bandcamp.com
Through A Window is currently available