To paraphrase the words of our special guest for this week's episode of the podcast, the most powerful songs are often the ones that both meet and challenge our expectations of music.

Because of years of conditioning and generations of artistic traditions, we tend to make a lot of assumptions as listeners. We can't help but expect songs to more or less adhere to certain forms, chord progressions, instrumentations, and countless other patterns.

Overall, that's not necessarily a bad thing. As writers, producers, and performers, we can use those instincts to create specific atmospheres, invoke complex emotions, and otherwise understand and connect with anyone who listens to the music we make.

Of course, there's quite a bit to be said for surprise and delight — the big ideas and tiny details that stray from what's standard, drawing us in by defying that which we've come to expect.

In the latest episode of Soundfly's podcast, Themes and Variation, Carter and Mahea are joined by composer, producer, and the artist featured in Soundfly's newest course, Ryan Lott to discuss "Songs That Defy Expectations."

Themes and Variation is presented by Soundfly, a music education website changing the way we build our creative skills :

Check out all of our courses including Ryan Lott: Designing Virtual Instruments here. Subscribe to all of our courses here and use the discount code PODCAST to take 20% off!

Listen to Son Lux here.

Check out each song discussed on the pod and more songs that defy expectations with this episode's playlist.

Have questions or comments? Want to suggest a theme for a future episode? Drop us a line at podcast@soundfly.com or reach out on Twitter.