Spruce needle cast? What is this?

Hey team RMBS,

Here is a question from Derrick Starkey regarding what looks like needle cast on a spruce:

"I have been struggling with what look to be needle cast on my spruce bonsai for years now. There seems to be a lot of information about pine needle scale on the web, however Neem oil (recommended for pines), is not always ok for spruce. I've used bonide systemic and it may slow down the issue but hasn't cured the problem. Any Suggestions? Dan W have you enoucuntered this in WY?"

Please see picture below. Notice white dots and banded, browning needles.