You’ve seen Ram Vela & the Easy Targets in these columns before, and their latest release is once again too good to ignore, also too important. Rx is more than a brilliant dose of high-octane power pop packaged as 90s alt-rock. The six tracks, clocking in as a seamless 22-minute ride, shape a concept EP with refreshingly honest lyrics that chronicle the rollercoaster of treating mental health with prescription medication.

Heavy stuff, but the unpolished production and powerful energy give these tunes an addictive, live-from-the-garage feel. It’s sharp, heartfelt, and unpretentious, turning infectious riffs into emotional remedies. It culminates in the off-topic, punk rock-infused closing Secret Song, which achieves exactly what it sets out to do: “Every band should have a song, with their name in it so you can sing along to.” Energizing.

Rx is out digitally (self-released). Featuring Ram Vela (lead vocals, guitars, synths, keys), Nathan Snyder (guitars, vocals), Dan Walker (bass, vocals), and Rachel “Spanky” Fuhrer (drums, additional percussion), with producer Matt Parmenter (also on vibraphone) providing good vibes.

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