The August installment of prog-rocker Fernando Perdomo’s ‘Waves’ series continues its devotion to the ocean/water theme with another ten forward-leaning songs. Dedicated to the late Strawbs leader Dave Cousins, Perdomo jumps in the deep end of the water with the álbum opener, “The Motion”. The slow-burning tracks feature atmospheric rhythmic guitar, Pino Palladino-inspired bass, and Perdomo’s appropriately restrained lead guitar. The building drum track and extended solo create a mesmerizing atmosphere, which makes me forget that this fantastic band is just Perdomo with his arsenal of instruments. 

“Current” is a straightforward prog-rock song with theremin-like synth touches, which are in harmony with Perdomo’s lead guitar work. Indeed, the sonbg’s driving percussion emulates a fast running stream and a sense of urgency, which dissipates in a flowing and satisfying way. 

“Cousins” is another of my favorites from the album. The song builds on a clean and powerful guitar lead, staccato rhythms, and otherworldly keyboards, transporting the listener to the beach and eventually to the water. The lead guitar builds as the song shifts into a higher plane of existence. 

“A Good Haul” offers a shift in musical perspective. Perdomo utilizes an acoustic guitar, which sounds like a sitar, and Middle Eastern-style percussion to transport the listener. The song is enchanting and eerie. I can’t help but think about how lyrics could enhance the song. Perdomo’s arranging and playing ask more questions than they answer. Repeated listening reveals more and more layers to the song, but never answers all the thematic questions raised by this stellar track. The sign of good music is that it keeps the listener on their toes. Mission accomplished! 

“The Cool Down“ is appropriately named. It feels like a perfect denouement to ‘Waves 8’ with its echoey and distorted theme guitar, sliding lead guitar, and mesmerizing keyboard textures. As a producer, Perdomo knows how to give his listeners just enough of a taste to get them hooked. He does it again on ‘Waves 8’. How does this installment rank when compared to the other fine ‘Waves’ releases?