Fernando Perdomo has contributed as producer and/or principal artist to several projects that made my top 20 list for 2025. His twelve-album Waves series deserves special mention for its ambition, musicality, and execution. When tasked with listing my favorites, I realized they change from day to day; however, the entire series demonstrates consistent quality. Perdomo has just released a ‘Best of Waves’ series at https://fernandoperdomo.bandcamp.com/album/the-best-of-waves-pre-order.

That’s a good starting place for your journey. Here are three of my favorite tracks…out of 120.

Waves – “Puzzle Peace,” perhaps my favorite song, is a compact yet powerful beast. Its funky guitar intro is infectious and leads to a slide guitar theme as the bass and drums build. Perdomo then adds a chunky rhythm guitar that plays just under his distorted lead. The song’s title is apt, given how the guitarist weaves the touches into an outstanding track. 

Waves 5 – The album starts with “Meditation For Jesse Gress,” an electric sitar-driven track that pays tribute to the late Todd Rundgren guitarist. Perdomo uses vintage-sounding keyboards to complement his sitar work, creating a swirling ocean vibe. It’s a bold and rewarding way to kick off Waves 5.

Waves 11 – “Gringo Island” – Touches of Southern California seem present in “Gringo Island.” The conga-and-shaker-driven track features prominent acoustic picking by Perdomo, with touches that sound like a 6-string bass. The song swings with wild abandon while recalling CSN’s “Fair Game”. It’s good fun.