''Medication'' by The Buttons

The Buttons return with Medication, their fifth studio album and second release of 2026, delivering another colourful collection of psychedelic pop rooted in the free-spirited sounds of the 1960s. Led by Glasgow-based songwriter and producer David Walsh, the record embraces an era when jangling guitars, dreamy harmonies and adventurous studio techniques helped shape some of pop music’s most enduring sounds. Drawing inspiration from The Brian Jonestown Massacre, The Beatles and The Mamas & The Papas, The Buttons create music that celebrates vintage influences without losing its own contemporary energy. Recorded at The Loft Studio in Glasgow, the album benefits from David’s hands-on approach, with every song written and produced by him. His attention to detail gives the material a consistent identity, allowing the different instrumental layers to work together in a warm, inviting soundscape. From the shimmering guitar textures to the unmistakable vintage character of the Mellotron, Medication establishes an atmosphere that feels nostalgic, colourful and full of life.

At the heart of the album is a straightforward but effective songwriting philosophy: combine accessible three-chord structures with memorable melodies, then surround them with rich instrumentation and psychedelic effects. The result is a collection that finds its strength in simplicity, demonstrating how familiar pop foundations can become captivating through thoughtful arrangements. Twelve-string electric and acoustic guitars provide much of the record’s sparkle, while tremolo effects give the music a swirling quality that recalls the experimental spirit of the psychedelic era. Tambourines add rhythmic brightness, and layered vocal harmonies bring depth and an unmistakable communal feel to the performances. The Mellotron is another important ingredient, lending several tracks an authentic period flavour without overwhelming the songs themselves. Standout track “Dig It Out!” captures the album’s sunny personality particularly well, offering a cheerful, summer-ready pop experience with shades of The Beatles and The Mamas & The Papas. Its carefree appeal reflects the broader spirit of the project, where infectious melodies and colourful arrangements take precedence over unnecessary complexity.

What makes Medication appealing is The Buttons’ commitment to a clearly defined musical vision. Rather than treating 1960s psychedelia as a costume, David approaches its characteristic sounds with evident affection, using layered guitars, harmonies and vintage instrumentation to create a cohesive listening experience. The album’s release also reinforces the band’s remarkable productivity, arriving just months after another studio album in the same year. Across this latest offering, The Buttons demonstrate that nostalgia can remain engaging when supported by strong melodies and genuine enthusiasm for the craft. While the record looks lovingly towards an earlier musical era, its lively arrangements and accessible songwriting give it an enduring appeal for listeners who appreciate classic pop with a psychedelic twist. Medication is a bright, melodic and warmly crafted release that celebrates the timeless pleasure of guitar-driven pop while reaffirming The Buttons’ dedication to keeping the psychedelic spirit alive.