67 episodes

Themes and Variation is Soundfly’s podcast about music and perspectives. In each episode, expert musicians and avid music lovers draw on their professional experiences and personal backgrounds to share unique insights and passionate opinions about songs they’ve selected based on their interpretations of a given theme. Of course, whether the panel’s discussing epic songs, songs that use the same sample, or classic wedding band requests, this is a show for anyone who loves music and has a desire to dig into it.

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThemesVariation

Themes and Variation Soundfly

    • Music
    • 5.0 • 20 Ratings

Themes and Variation is Soundfly’s podcast about music and perspectives. In each episode, expert musicians and avid music lovers draw on their professional experiences and personal backgrounds to share unique insights and passionate opinions about songs they’ve selected based on their interpretations of a given theme. Of course, whether the panel’s discussing epic songs, songs that use the same sample, or classic wedding band requests, this is a show for anyone who loves music and has a desire to dig into it.

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThemesVariation

    Songs About Science

    Songs About Science

    "An energetic and scholastic throwback theme, a captivating piece of experimental sound art, and an alt rock ode to one of humanity's most celebrated minds.."
    What does one of Martin's favorite '90s cartoons have in common with a creative genius in the world of sound art? What's the shared link between Frasier, Philip Glass, and the Counting Crows? Is John Mayer a shameless pre-chorus thief?
    In the latest episode of Themes and Variation, we dig into all these questions and more. Join me (your humble podcast host, Mahea Lee), Jeremy Young, and Martin Fowler as we embark upon a journey to the center of the theme: "Songs About Science."
    This episode is centered around track selections from the catalogs of Peter Lurye, Tristan Perich, and the Counting Crows, with a special shout out to the work of celebrated composer Philip Glass and acclaimed pianist Vicky Chow. As ever, the discussion touches on topics like theory, production, and music history — along with opinions and anecdotes from the panel here and there.
    If you're looking for your next small step in the direction of musical knowledge and entertainment, join us for the episode "Songs About Science."
    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and consider leaving us a 5-star review to help us spread the word and keep the the show in motion! It would mean a lot to us. 
    Want more? Go ahead and explore the back catalog of our previous episodes, and subscribe to hear every one of our episodes right when they come out, on your preferred platform: 
    Apple PodcastsSpotifyiHeart Radioor anywhere else you get your podcasts.
    We'll see you in a couple weeks with a new theme, new guests, and some new songs to break down. If you have any comments, questions, or theme suggestions, drops us a line at podcast@soundfly.com or find us on Twitter.
    Mentioned in this episode:
    Visit soundfly.com to learn more!

    • 48 min
    Cathartic Songs

    Cathartic Songs

    "The quintessential cover of a song that yearns for transformation, the ultimate anthem of self-reflection, and a number full of nuance that gets me every. single. time..."
    In the latest episode of Themes and Variation, I (your stalwart podcast shepherd, Mahea Lee) am joined by magnificent musician and occasional co-host Jeremy Young as well as singer, producer, multi-instrumentalist, and all-around treasure of the Soundfly community, Lana Cenčić to discuss "Cathartic Songs."
    This episode features selections from the catalogs of Baby Huey & the Babysitters, Michael Jackson, and Simon Dawes. What's the maximum amount of emotion that can be carried by a single human voice? If you ask nicely, will the man in the mirror ever change his ways? Is it possible for a music school graduate to love a song for nearly two decades without realizing it contains more than one time change?
    Follow us on X (Twitter) @ThemesVariation for news about the show including upcoming episodes and more!
    Learn more about Lana here.
    And be sure to check out the new Soundfly Shop where you can find some sweet Themes and Variation merch — including a mug that's perfect for holding everything from coffee to... tea.
    Mentioned in this episode:
    Visit soundfly.com to learn more!

    • 48 min
    Songs With Limitations

    Songs With Limitations

     "A composition created in the dark. A vocal piece destined to become a new kind of anthem. And quite possibly the most authentic song in the history of rock..."
    In the latest episode of Themes and Variation, our podcast panelists share their takes on the theme "Songs With Limitations." 
    This time around, I (your humble host, Mahea Lee) am joined by co-host Martin Fowler and special guest, Lora-Faye Åshuvud of the band Arthur Moon to chat about musical constraints and the creativity they sometimes inspire.
    This episode features selections from the catalogs of Dawn of Midi, Björk, and The Shaggs. How does a track sound when the instrumentalists are really listening? What makes the human voice so magical and appealing? And what does it truly mean to understand music?
    By the way, don't forget to subscribe to the show and please consider leaving us a 5-star review to help us spread the word and keep the lights on! It would mean a lot to us.
    Want more? Go ahead and explore the back catalog of our previous episodes, and subscribe to hear every one of our episodes right when they come out, on your preferred platform: 
    Apple PodcastsSpotifyiHeart Radioor anywhere else you get your podcasts.
    We'll see you in a couple weeks with a new theme and some new songs to break down. If you have any comments, questions, or theme suggestions, drops us a line at podcast@soundfly.com or find us on Twitter.
    Mentioned in this episode:
    Visit soundfly.com to learn more!

    • 50 min
    Fight Songs

    Fight Songs

    Follow us on Twitter to keep up with podcast news and join in on the conversation!
    An aptly named number from a bombastic legend of the upright bass… A rage filled rallying cry echoing the emotions of the masses… And an orchestral tapestry filled with elaborate symbolism, in spite of being loathed by its creator…
    In the latest episode of Themes and Variation, our podcast panelists unpack their interpretations of the term "fight songs."
    This time around, I (your humble host, Mahea Lee) am joined by co-host Martin Fowler and special guest and Soundfly Founder and CEO, Ian Temple to discuss musical selections full of unrelenting angst, righteous indignation, and fiery determination.
    This time around, we've highlighted songs by Charles Mingus, Rage Against the Machine, and Pyotr Illyich Tchaikovsky. The conversation touches on topics like mob mentality, the jazz world's rumor mill, and orchestrated gunfire.
    Could Mingus swing? Is there a reason for the seemingly unfinished name of a particular '90s hit? And why does the "1812 Overture" sound so familiar? Check out the latest episode of Themes and Variation for answers to these questions and more.
    By the way, don't forget to subscribe to the show and please consider leaving us a 5-star review to help us spread the word and keep the lights on! It would mean a lot to us.
    Want more? Go ahead and explore the back catalog of our previous episodes, and subscribe to hear every one of our episodes right when they come out, on your preferred platform:
    Apple PodcastsSpotifyiHeart Radioor anywhere else you get your podcasts.
    Find Themes and Variation's "Fight Songs" playlist here.
    Mentioned in this episode:
    Visit soundfly.com for more!

    • 46 min
    Comeback Songs

    Comeback Songs

    Follow us on Twitter for show news and more.
    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.
    Mentioned in this episode:
    Visit soundfly.com for more!

    • 42 min
    Themes and Variation Returns on August 30th!

    Themes and Variation Returns on August 30th!

    Follow us on Twitter for show news and more.
    Hey folks, Mahea Lee here and I'm excited to let you know that Themes and Variation will be returning on Wednesday, August 30th, but this time around I'll be playing host.
    Just like always, each episode will be centered around a theme, like "Songs You Know By Heart" or "Apocalypse Songs." Each episode will feature a three person panel, the members of which will bring in songs they've selected based on how they choose to interpret the theme of that episode.
    Those song selections can lead the conversation everywhere from harmonic theory to music industry lore, to unexpected production tips, and even embarrassing childhood memories.
    Joining me throughout the season will be show favorites Martin Fowler and Jeremy Young, as well as some new friends and familiar faces.
    New episodes will be available via Spotify, Apple, and just about anywhere else you go for podcasts. We'll be releasing the next episode, "Comeback Songs" on August 30th, but go ahead and subscribe to the show now and you'll have one less thing to remember later. Happy listening, and we'll see you soon.
    Mentioned in this episode:
    Visit soundfly.com for more!

    • 1 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
20 Ratings

20 Ratings

rerebear ,

Groovy

Love the podcast with EFA! Great dynamics like talking with friends

Twister2009 ,

Engaging, Insightful, Fun.

If you want to hear about all the rich, weird and interesting perspectives, ideas sitting in behind favourite songs (and songs you know nothing about), then this podcast is the place to be. Engaging.

K834 ,

Looking forward!

Very excited for this! We could all use some inspiration in the “new topics for conversation” department right now... I now have a solid reason to talk about the Fine Young Cannibals, thank you.

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