Return: Sept. 6, 2011

Variations on a Theme came back after a two-week hiatus with a bang, bringing you the theme of Return.

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We start by welcoming you back into the fold.

The Thermals - "Returning to the Fold" - The Body, the Blood, the Machine (2006)

Akron/Family - "Running, Returning" - Akron/Family (2005)

Let's hear about a specific kind of return: the comeback.

Stars - "The Comeback" - The Comeback (2001)

The New Pornographers - "Ballad of a Comeback Kid" - Electric Version (2003)

Not all returns go well. Sometimes a place isn't how you remember it.

Scissor Sisters - "Return to Oz" - Scissor Sisters (2004)

Justin Rutledge - "Emily Returns" - The Devil on a Bench in Stanley Park (2006)

It is possible to go past the point of no return.

Hungry Kids of Hungary - "No Returns" - Escapades (2010)

Matthew Hornell & the Diamond Minds - "Will You Come Back" - Matthew Hornell & the Diamond Minds (2010)

Clea Roddick - "Birds Come Back" - Songs of the Year Vol. 2 (2011)

The best kind of return—and the most powerful—can be coming back home.

Lucero - "On the Way Back Home" - Rebels, Rogues & Sworn Brothers (2006)

Alela Diane feat. Alina Hardin - "I Have Returned" - Alela & Alina (2009)

To that end, allow me to welcome you back home.

The Skatalites - "Welcome Back Home" - Stretching Out (1998)