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August 30, 2023 42 mins

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The long-awaited return of one of the most legendary names in neo soul… The reflective resurrection of a beloved rock god… And the redemption remix of an artist who rose like a phoenix from the ashes of musical virality…

Themes and Variation is back with our first episode of the new season: "Comeback Songs."

It's been ages since I wrote an article to tease out some key details about an episode of Soundfly's podcast and compel you all to have a listen. In the past, I filled the role of companion to Carter Lee, the show's former host (and, as it happens, my very own past, current, and future spouse).

Well, as of now, I'm stepping into the driver's seat. Our new navigators are Soundfly team members and show favorites, Martin Fowler and Jeremy Young.

To usher in the big return, the three of us each brought in a musical selection befitting the theme "Comeback Songs." Armed with little more than research notes, three mics, and the company Zoom account, we dug deep into our track choices. Along the way, we discussed things like the time Questlove leaked someone else's demo on Australian radio, the hardest working musician in all the goblin realm, and a surprising connection between cyberbullying and early cinema.

*Warning: Spoilers ahead. If you'd prefer to be surprised, you better start listening to the episode before it's too late!

The episode, "Comeback Songs" is anchored by musical selections from the catalogs of D'Angelo, David Bowie, and Rebecca Black.

Be sure to visit soundfly.com for all your music learning needs.

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