Fernando Perdomo’s Wave series of albums keeps coming out, and this month’s release, ‘Waves 5,’ is no exception. It’s another deep dive into the producer, songwriter, and guitarist’s musical treasure trove.

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.

“A Mystery” picks up the pace with a distorted sliding lead guitar over a Nick Mason-like drum pattern. Perdomo, the only musician on the album, is comfortable in various styles and settings. “A Mystery” builds on its distorted lead guitar, but repeated listening reveals multiple layers of guitar textures that support the main theme and create images of seagulls flying.

“Stomper XL” is another favorite from the album. The lead guitar floats over a straightforward bass and drum rhythm, with touches of electric sitar and a clear rhythm guitar before the main melodic lines shift. It’s a masterclass in subtlety.

“You Do Not Look Like a Fernando” is a slow-burning track. The lead guitar is expressive with tinges of David Gilmour-like tone. The slow marching drum pattern and synth strings add to a foreboding danger that isn’t fully realized until the end.

“Sunray” is a stark contrast to the previous track. The protagonist has survived the storm and is moving forward at a brisk pace. Touches of electric 12-string guitar and melodic bass help build the pace, while Perdomo delivers some of the album’s cleanest yet most aggressive lead guitar work. The lead bass work towards the end also gives the listener more to think about. 

The album closer, “Deep Sea Diver,” brings the album full circle. It features the sitar again, along with subtle drumming and harmonized electric guitar parts. The song builds on the sitar’s themes, adding a dynamic that matches the thrill of diving. By the time the electric guitar enters to tie everything together, I can’t help but wonder if Waves 6 will keep these captivating musical threads going.