Big Stir Records is proud to welcome longtime friends The Gold Needles to our official roster. Originating from Kingston Upon Hull, England — the hometown of music legend Mick Ronson — The Gold Needles formed in 2015 and have made a lasting impact on the British indie guitar-pop scene. Their momentum continues to build with each release.
Band Lineup & Past Work
The Gold Needles are:
Simon Dowson – Lead vocals, rhythm guitar
Dave Burbage – Lead & rhythm guitars
Mark English – Keyboards, backing vocals
Carl Slaughter – Bass guitar, harmony vocals
Will Jones – Drums
They have released three albums (most recently, What’s Tomorrow Ever Done For You?, 2021) plus a handful of collectible standalone vinyl singles. They’ve also contributed to the Jem Records Celebrates tribute compilations.
A New Chapter with Big Stir
As 2024 drew to a close, The Gold Needles began an exciting new phase as part of Big Stir Records’ evolving international pop-rock catalog. Their first single under the label is “I Don’t Know About That”, a powerful kickoff to their next era, with a new album scheduled for release in 2025.
Their musical style leans into what they call “Psych Beat,” drawing influence from The Beatles, The Cars, The Motors, and others. They emphasize melody and harmony, and their discography demonstrates their talent for weaving those elements into finely tuned indie pop.
Radio & Live Reach
The Gold Needles have earned airplay on Sirius XM (including shows by Bill Kelly, Chris Carter, Michael des Barres), the BBC, and numerous local and national stations around the world. Live, they’ve cultivated a reputation for strong performances: highlights include multiple shows at Liverpool’s Cavern Club, appearances at Wales’ Dream of Dr Sardonicus Festival, and support slots alongside The Darling Buds, Duncan Reid & The Big Heads, The Monochrome Set, and EXTC.
New Single & Upcoming Album
Their forthcoming single, “Turns To Gold”, releases October 24, 2025, and is already available for pre-order/pre-save. It follows earlier 2025 releases like “I Don’t Know About That,” “Supernature,” and their Halloween contribution “Ghost In The Airwaves.”
“Turns To Gold” explores the complexities of the music business — its murky, alluring, and sometimes ruthless nature — yet the band balances critique with empathy. The track is bold, expansive, and sonically ambitious, featuring:
Speaker-shredding guitar lines
Riffs and solos inspired by Thin Lizzy
Oscillating keyboards echoing The Cars
A rhythm section that channels classic rock energy
Originally titled “Everything You Touch Turns To Gold,” the band trimmed it down for impact. The final title reflects the minimalist spirit behind the song’s ambition. The band describes the song as a reflection on the ups and downs of the industry — how one’s journey through those highs and lows shapes the music we make.
“Turns To Gold” embodies a turning point: it’s both a reflection on what lies ahead and proof that The Gold Needles are primed for what’s next.
