Multi-instrumentalist Fernando Perdomo never stays in one place for too long. The talented guitarist, producer, and songwriter has continued his year-long Clouds series while slightly altering his flight plan, with Clouds 2 having 13 progressive rock tracks instead of the usual 10.

That does not mean there is filler, however. Track #11, “Thunder” is as understatedly beautiful as anything in the series todate. Perdomo follows a minimalist approach with the song, with most of it featuring his singular electric guitar. The midpoint of the song features booming tom-tom touches that lead into a forboading guitar theme that carries the rest of the song. It’s a perfect song to follow “Ominous Mass”. This song also has a minimalist theme, with a single plucked electric guitar and light synthesizer touches that weave around the melody. 

‘Clouds 2’ distinguishes itself from the prior ‘Clouds’ album and the preceding ‘Waves’ series as it was recorded by Perdomo in South New Zealand while Perdomo was on tour. The setting surely had an impact on the album, which distinguishes itself from ‘Clouds’ with its stark yet approachable feel. 

“Aui Lang Syne”, listed as a bonus track, packs more into its thirty seconds than most rock songs can accomplish in five minutes, while “WFD” is intense and foreboding. The song’s stowic synth sounds, trebley overdubbed guitar, and prominent acoustic work time together to create a song that is orchestral in scope and brilliant in execution. 

“Give A Dam” is a rolling, multi-guitar soundscape that builds to a satisfying yet mysterious resolution.

Equally satisfying is “Hiding Under Clouds”. The album’s closer and additional bonus track features Perdomo’s first vocal of the album series. Lyrically, the guitarist paints a clear connection between a challenging relationship and storm clouds. Accompanied by a singular acoustic guitar which, on first listen, reminds me of Joe Walsh’s “Theme From Island Weirdos,” Perdomo paints a vivid, inviting image and a fitting end to ‘Clouds 2’.