Impropod Podcast
Composer and producer Luke Tomlinson improvises on the piano creating a spontaneous soundtrack to guest’s stories and ideas. We explore the effect music has on the imagination, its psychology and its relationship to movement. A fun, unique and informative listen! Instagram @impropod visit impropod.com for more info and to explore the interactive podcast map!

About Luke
Luke Tomlinson is a composer and producer based in Bristol, UK. Improvisation has always played an important part in his music. He has a degree in film studies, from Falmouth University, and also composes music for Independent films. Luke has collaborated with composers and songwriters from all over world including Echofinch and YB the Prophet. He also plays in the Bristol based reggae band Mizizi and the soulful Hiphop outfit YoMojo.
Episodes

Tuesday Aug 01, 2023
Ep12 Solace & hitchhiking - Oscar Linsey Turner
Tuesday Aug 01, 2023
Tuesday Aug 01, 2023
Ecological entrepreneur and podcaster Oscar Lindsay-Turner tells a heartfelt story about loss and solace, his hitchhiking adventures in Germany and they discuss music's impact on memory.
They delve into themes of improvisation, storytelling, and the emotional complexities of death. Oscar shares his experiences in comedy improv, music, and poetry, and reflects on losing friends to suicide. Luke improvises music to accompany Oscar's narratives, enhancing the emotional depth of the stories. They discuss the cathartic nature of sharing personal experiences and the impact of music on memory. Oscar's podcast, "The Nature Deficit Podcast," focusing on environmental issues, is also highlighted.
Follow Oscar's podcast on Instagram: @naturedeficit
Introduction and Guest Introduction (00:00:03)The host welcomes Oscar Lindsay Tanner, an ecological entrepreneur and podcaster, to the episode.
Oscar's Relationship with Improvisation (00:00:15)Oscar discusses his broad experiences with improvisation in comedy, music, and poetry.
Improvising Music for Storytelling (00:00:40)The host plays improvised music, asking Oscar to share his thoughts and feelings about it.
Reflections on Music and Emotion (00:02:09)Oscar describes how the music evokes memories of judgment, beauty, and church architecture.
Technical Aspects of Improvisation (00:03:30)The host and Oscar discuss the technical challenges and mental processes involved in improvisation.
Exploring the Topic of Death (00:04:28)Oscar shares his experiences with the deaths of three male friends who committed suicide.
Mourning and Reflection (00:05:55)Oscar reflects on the mourning process and the spiritual interpretations of death.
Personal Story of a Friend's Suicide (00:06:23)Oscar recounts the story of a friend from a course who took his own life.
Journey to the Ceremony (00:06:56)Oscar describes his emotional and reckless drive to Bristol for his friend's memorial.
Ceremony and Emotional Connection (00:07:58)Oscar shares the cathartic experience of the memorial ceremony with friends and family.
Therapeutic Insights (00:09:03)Oscar discusses how therapy helped him commit to living fully after his friend's death.
Identifying What Makes Him Feel Alive (00:09:34)Oscar reveals his passions for writing, teaching, and connecting with nature.
Breaking Down the Story (00:11:57)The host outlines the story into sections for further exploration and improvisation.
Cathartic Release of Storytelling (00:12:04)Oscar feels the narrative's emotional journey during the storytelling process.
Musical Interpretation of the Story (00:12:35)The host discusses how music conveys emotions tied to Oscar's story.
Visualizing the Story (00:13:04)Oscar and the host explore how they visualize the narrative through music.
Another Story: Hitchhiking Journey (00:13:45)Oscar shares a story about his adventurous hitchhiking journey across Europe.
Experiences with Hitchhiking (00:14:23)Oscar describes his encounters with various people during his hitchhiking adventure.
Unexpected Journey to Romania (00:15:22)Oscar recounts a miscommunication that led him to Romania instead of Hungary.
Sleeping Outdoors (00:16:31)He shares his experiences and fears while sleeping in a service station.
Arrival in Budapest (00:17:02)Oscar expresses the joy of surprising friends upon his arrival in Budapest.
Reflections on the Podcast Experience (00:21:07)Oscar reflects on how the podcast format helped him understand his life stories.
Influence of Music on Memory (00:22:01)Oscar discusses how the music may shape his memories of personal experiences.
Collaborative Memory Creation (00:22:28)The host and Oscar discuss the idea of music collaborating with memory.
**Closing Thoughts on the Podcast (
Keywords
Impro Pod podcast, Oscar Lindsay Tanner, ecological entrepreneur, improvisation, storytelling, personal experiences, death, comedy improv, musical improvisation, freestyle poetry, emotional journey, loss, suicide, music and memory, Nature Deficit Podcast, environmental issues, emotional complexities, personal storytelling, mourning process, ceremonies, grief, pain of suicide, closure, cathartic journey, ceremony and reflection, hitchhiking journey, alternative living, adventures, challenges, musical accompaniment, podcast experience, influence of music on memory, interconnectedness of life and death, healing through improvisation.

Tuesday Jul 25, 2023
Ep11 Climbing a mountain barefoot, beatboxing and Cabagism - Finn Hopkins
Tuesday Jul 25, 2023
Tuesday Jul 25, 2023
Luke Interviews beatboxer and hiphop legend Finn Hopkins (AKA Dr Asparagus), who tells stories of treehouses in the monsoon, and an epic mountain climbing adventure. Finn is the son of Rob Hopkins from Episode 31.
Podcast Episode Timestamps
Introduction and Guest Introduction (00:00:28)Host welcomes Finn Hopkins and delves into his relationship with improvisation.
Finn's Background in Music (00:00:41)Finn shares his journey with improvisation, beatboxing, and hip hop from a young age.
Exploring Looping in Music (00:01:15)Discussion on how beatboxing led Finn to explore looping in his musical performances.
Imagining Music Visions (00:01:45)Finn describes a vision inspired by music, involving a woman dancing and ascending stairs.
Recurring Theme of Ascension (00:03:08)Host notes the recurring theme of climbing in the podcast's musical explorations.
Climbing a Mountain in India Story (00:03:32)Finn recounts a night trek up a mountain in India while under the influence of acid.
Challenges During the Mountain Trek (00:04:44)Finn describes the difficulties faced during the hike, including cold and lack of water.
Barefoot Climbing Experience (00:04:49)Discussion on Finn's choice to climb barefoot and the sensations it brings.
Pre-Journey Excitement (00:05:13)Finn reflects on the excitement and lack of doubt he felt before starting the climb.
Formation of Conscious Cabbages Band (00:05:22)Finn mentions forming a band while living in India, focusing on a carefree lifestyle.
Reaching the Mountain Summit (00:06:10)Finn shares the mix of feelings upon reaching the summit, including hunger and bartering.
Improvising a Musical Soundtrack (00:07:02)Host breaks down Finn's story into musical segments to create an improvised soundtrack.
Reflecting on the Improvised Soundtrack (00:09:51)Finn reacts positively to the improvised music, relating it to his journey.
Introduction to Second Story (00:11:08)Finn begins a new story about living in a treehouse in Ghana during monsoon season.
Living in Paradise Beach, Ghana (00:11:50)Description of the beautiful treehouse and the environment in Ghana before the monsoon.
Experiencing the Monsoon (00:12:47)Finn recounts the chaos and isolation he felt when the monsoon hit after friends left.
Health Issues in the Jungle (00:13:34)Finn shares his experience of getting ill and feeling lonely while in the jungle.
Bizarre Awakening Experience (00:14:48)Finn describes a strange awakening after a night spent on a table in a restaurant.
Realization of Needing to Escape (00:14:50)Realization of needing to leave the jungle due to his health and circumstances.
Reflecting on the Monsoon Music (00:17:57)Discussion on how the improvised music reflected Finn's experiences during the monsoon.
Contrasting Rain Vibes (00:18:01)Finn contrasts the monsoon rain with typical rain, emphasizing its intensity.
Musicians' Perception of Stories (00:18:44)Discussion on how different musicians interpret stories through music differently.
Final Thoughts on Improvisation (00:19:22)Finn appreciates the improvisational process and how it allows for unique interpretations.
Conclusion and Farewell (00:20:55)Host thanks Finn for sharing his stories and insights.
Keywords:
Impro Pod, improvisation, music, storytelling, Finn Hopkins, beatboxing, hip hop, looping, personal anecdotes, creative process, ascension, narrative, mountain climbing, India, acid, treehouse, Ghana, monsoon season, musical interlude, emotions, subjective interpretation, unique experiences, improvisational style, French exchange trip, ballet dance, camaraderie, jungle, loneliness, illness, chaotic experiences, musical soundtrack, creative expression, shared experiences, podcast episode.

Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
Ep10 Adventures in New Orleans, music to V8 engines & sea slugs! - Bob Tomlinson
Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
House designing renegade, father to Luke, & director of Village Makers, discuss the soundtrack of sea slugs and hot busses. Bob tells his adventures involving mushrooms and guns in New Orleans...
Podcast Episode Timestamps
Introduction to Bob Tomlinson (00:00:03)The host introduces his father, Bob, a "house designing renegade."
Bob's Design Philosophy (00:00:15)Bob explains his approach to designing houses and living spaces.
Improvisation in Music (00:00:29)Bob shares his limited experience with improvisation in music.
Trial and Error in Design (00:00:42)Bob discusses learning from existing designs through trial and error.
Musical Reflection (00:01:03)The host plays music for Bob to evoke thoughts and imagery.
Imagery from Music (00:01:12)Bob describes a vivid scene inspired by the music he hears.
Transition Points in Music (00:02:54)Bob identifies transition points in the musical narrative he perceives.
Ceremony in Dance (00:03:32)Bob reflects on the ceremonial quality of a dance he imagines.
Story of New Orleans (00:04:03)Bob begins recounting a memorable trip to New Orleans with his grandmother.
Mushroom Picking Adventure (00:05:27)Bob shares a humorous story about picking mushrooms early in the morning.
Vigilantes in New Orleans (00:06:35)Bob describes a tense moment involving vigilantes while picking mushrooms.
Music Interpretation (00:09:24)The host and Bob discuss how music captured the essence of the story.
Engine Rhythms in Music (00:10:40)Bob explains the rhythmic qualities of different engine sounds and their musicality.
Bus Journey in India (00:12:29)Bob recounts a challenging bus journey in India and the struggle for a seat.
Madras Bus Station Description (00:14:54)Bob describes the atmosphere of the bus station in Madras.
Sweat and Tension (00:17:42)Bob reflects on the physical sensations experienced during the bus journey.
Pickled Sea Slug Experience (00:18:30)Bob shares a story about tasting pickled sea slugs in Samoa.
Musical Representation of Taste (00:19:50)The host attempts to create music that reflects the taste of the sea slug.
Conclusion and Insights (00:21:54)Bob shares insights on how music can enhance storytelling and memory.
Keywords,
Bob Tomlinson, house design, improvisation, storytelling, music, creative process, livable spaces, trial and error, personal anecdotes, musical inspiration, community, celebration, narrative, New Orleans, grandmother, unique home, grain barges, mushrooms, tension, humor, musical interpretation, jazz, V8 engine, sound, machinery, travel, Chennai, bus station, public transport, cultural nuances, adventure, pickled sea slugs, flavors, textures, creative expression, storytelling through music, emotions, memories, interpersonal connection.

Tuesday Jul 11, 2023
Ep9 Interaction of time, movement and music - Joe Kelly
Tuesday Jul 11, 2023
Tuesday Jul 11, 2023
Luke interviews surfer, fitness couch and movement specialist Joe Kelly. They discus the change in perception of time when faced with a dangerous wave! They discuss how micro-attention to details helps navigate challenging environments, and what this sounds like on the piano! As well as the music and movement relationship.
Follow Joe on instagram: @barefootathlete
Introduction to Joe Kelly (00:00:04)The host welcomes Joe Kelly and discusses his relationship with improvisation.
Improv as Freedom (00:00:19)Joe shares his view on improvisation as a natural and unrestricted movement.
Musical Reflection (00:01:29)Joe reflects on music's emotional impact, likening it to movement and delicacy.
Surfing Experience (00:02:00)Joe narrates his surfing experience, focusing on micro-attention in challenging conditions.
Eerie Silence in Surfing (00:04:21)He describes the contrast between intense surfing and the calm silence afterward.
Biking Incident (00:05:22)Joe recounts a memorable biking accident while managing a shopping bag.
Musical Representation of Biking (00:06:53)The host plays music to capture the essence of Joe's biking experience.
Travel Story: Dengue Fever (00:08:14)Joe shares his experience of contracting dengue fever while traveling in Central America.
Musical Interpretation of Fever (00:11:20)The host improvises music to reflect Joe's experience during the fever.
Touch Rugby Insights (00:12:14)Joe discusses how touch rugby influences his perception of time and movement.
Perception of Time in Movement (00:15:11)He explains how movement can alter one’s perception of time and rhythm.
Sound and Movement (00:16:26)Joe describes how different sounds can emerge in chaotic movement situations.
Improvisation vs. Composition (00:17:58)The conversation shifts to how improvisation can evolve into composition.
Asking Questions in Improv (00:19:06)Joe emphasizes the importance of exploring and questioning in both movement and music.
Learning from Mistakes (00:20:21)Joe shares a story about his son's balance and how mistakes can lead to improvement.
Conclusion (00:20:49)The host thanks Joe for discussing the parallels between music and movement improvisation.
Keywords
Impro Pod, improvisation, music, movement, Joe Kelly, movement specialist, lifeguard, surfing, cycling, touch rugby, micro-attention, natural movement, fluidity, adaptability, personal experiences, storytelling, Muhammad Ali, float like a butterfly, sting like a bee, gentle rain, subtlety, awareness, challenging environments, ocean navigation, chaos, clarity, unexpected movement, balance, dengue fever, travel stories, perception of time, improvisational nature, creativity, dynamic play, evolution, adaptation, embracing mistakes, personal anecdotes, audience engagement, exploring creativity.

Tuesday Jul 04, 2023
Ep8 Royalty, Death & a Misunderstanding - Dylan Allan
Tuesday Jul 04, 2023
Tuesday Jul 04, 2023
How do you portray drunkenness on the piano? Classical pianist Dylan Allan discuses the sound of royalty, and tells a heartfelt story about mortality and death. As well as a tale of a ridiculous misunderstanding in a pub!
Follow Dylan on instagram @dylana431
]Introduction to Improvisation (00:00:16)Host welcomes Dylan Allen and asks about his relationship with improvisation.
Musical Background (00:00:25)Dylan shares his experience with a band and his classical training on the piano.
On-the-Spot Improvisation (00:00:56)Host plays music, prompting Dylan to share his spontaneous thoughts and feelings.
Imagining a Story (00:03:04)Dylan recounts a personal story about his grandmother's passing and its emotional impact.
Emotional Phases of Loss (00:06:30)Discussion about the emotional stages experienced during the car ride after receiving bad news.
Contrasting a Lighter Story (00:07:42)Dylan shares a humorous incident from a recent outing with friends, involving a piano.
Drunkenness and Musical Interpretation (00:12:23)Exploration of how to musically portray the feeling of drunkenness.
Theoretical vs. Practical Learning (00:15:38)Discussion on whether it's better to learn improvisation theoretically or through experimentation.
Improvisation Patterns (00:18:24)Dylan reflects on the importance of patterns and repetition in improvisation.
A Story from Morocco (00:18:41)Dylan shares a story about an encounter with aggressive stray dogs while on vacation.
Closing Thoughts on Improvisation (00:22:04)Dylan expresses his desire to explore improvisation further and reflects on music's connection to memory.

Tuesday Jun 27, 2023
Ep7 Dance, Venezuela China Culture Clash & Wet Socks - Carolina Minton Frias
Tuesday Jun 27, 2023
Tuesday Jun 27, 2023
Dancer and artist, Carolina Minton Frias tells Stories of moving continents, falling in posh rivers and they explore the musical interpretations of wet socks! As well as late night turtles and cultural clashes.Follow Carolina on Instagram @carrocatica
Podcast Episode Timestamps
Introduction to Carolina (00:00:05)Carolina Minton Frias introduces herself as a British-Venezuelan guest.
Music and Childhood Memories (00:01:30)Carolina shares a poignant childhood memory linked to the music played.
Camping in Oman (00:02:52)A vivid recollection of camping in Oman and witnessing hatching turtles.
Emotional Reflections (00:04:20)Carolina reflects on her feelings during the turtle experience and trust in the unknown.
Musical Juxtaposition (00:05:56)Discussion on the contrasting feelings evoked by the music and memories.
Beijing Culture Shock (00:08:33)Carolina describes her move to Beijing and the cultural adjustments she faced.
Impact of the Olympics (00:09:20)Discussion on the controversial construction for the Beijing Olympics.
Running Away from Home (00:07:53)A story about feeling alienated and hiding with her dog during childhood.
Perception of Beijing (00:12:18)Carolina explains how the music reflects her perception of Beijing during her childhood.
High School Incident (00:13:33)A humorous story about falling into a koi river at school.
Musical Interpretation of Awkwardness (00:15:54)The host discusses the music's representation of the awkwardness of wet socks.
Fear and Darkness (00:17:17)Carolina shares her fear of the dark and the haunted feeling of her stairs.
Musical Reflection on Fear (00:19:42)Exploration of how music can evoke feelings of fear and entrapment.
Choreography Inspiration (00:20:35)Carolina expresses her renewed interest in choreography inspired by the music's storytelling.

Tuesday Jun 20, 2023
Ep6 Power of musical Improv, glass staircases & Intentionality - Yoosuf Blake
Tuesday Jun 20, 2023
Tuesday Jun 20, 2023
In this Episode Luke talks to enthusiastic and entertaining music producer and songwriter Yoosuf Blake in Los Angeles. Yoosuf tells some fun childhood stories and witnesses the power of musical improvisation! And they discuss its impact.Follow Yoosuf on instagram @ybtheprophet
More info on Yoosuf and listen to his tracks here:🕋 @syncollectivemusiclinktr.ee/ybtheprophet
Podcast Episode Timestamps
Introduction to Yoosuf Blake (00:00:05)The host welcomes Yoosuf Blake and asks about his well-being.
Improvisation in Music Creation (00:00:19)Yoosuf shares that his music creation process is entirely improvised and varies each time.
Thoughts on Music Played (00:00:54)Yoosuf describes his imaginative perception of a piece of music played by the host.
Anecdote About Grandmother's House (00:02:51)Yoosuf recounts a childhood story about a misunderstanding with his uncle in a garage.
Narrative Breakdown (00:03:41)The host analyzes the story's structure, focusing on fear and resolution.
Musical Interpretation of the Story (00:05:15)Yoosuf praises the host's musical accompaniment to his story and its emotional depth.
Another Childhood Story (00:06:17)Yoosuf shares a story about a near-drowning incident at his uncle's pool.
Musical Reflection on the Second Story (00:09:17)Yoosuf reflects on how the music captured the emotions of his pool story.
Discussion on Scoring (00:10:41)Yoosuf inquires if the host has considered scoring music due to his improvisation skills.
Creating Emotion through Music (00:11:08)Yoosuf praises the host's ability to channel emotions and storytelling through music.
Simple Story Request (00:11:59)The host asks for another simple story to accompany with music.
Eggnog Incident Anecdote (00:12:03)Yoosuf tells a humorous story about misidentifying eggnog as milk, leading to conflict.
Final Musical Interpretation (00:15:49)Yoosuf appreciates the dramatic ending of the music accompanying his eggnog story.
Insights on Improvisation (00:16:31)Yoosuf discusses the power of improvisation and the host's skill in creating music.
Conclusion and Collaboration Wish (00:17:00)The host expresses gratitude and hopes to collaborate with Yoosuf on a new track.

Wednesday Jun 14, 2023
Ep5 Tom Waits & the Old Bakery - Stuart Bell
Wednesday Jun 14, 2023
Wednesday Jun 14, 2023
In this Episode Luke Interviews songwriter Stewart Bell remotely in Scotland. Luke experiments with the sound of Tom Waits, Stoo tells stories of a surprise at Tower Records, an old family bakery (with a scotch oven!). And gives some great insight into his relationship with music. Check out Stoo on Instagram: @stoo.bell
Stoo's music On Spotify @goldfinch_songs
Podcast Timestamps and Topics
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:05)The host welcomes listeners to the fifth episode of "Impro Pod," marking the first remote session.
Introduction of Stu Bell (00:00:15)Stu Bell introduces himself, sharing his name and location in Scotland.
Musical Reaction Prompt (00:00:28)The host plays a piece of music and asks Stu for his thoughts and feelings about it.
Imagery Evoked by Music (00:01:19)Stu describes a vivid image of a woman escaping through a forest while listening to the music.
Personal Connection to Music (00:01:44)Stu discusses his emotional and visual reactions to music, highlighting a visceral connection.
Stu's Musical Background (00:02:01)Stu shares his experience as a songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist, emphasizing his improvisation style.
Improvisation Challenges (00:02:10)Stu explains his struggles with improvisation and the importance of musical knowledge.
Story of Discovering Tom Waits (00:02:58)Stu recounts a memorable night discovering Tom Waits' music at a friend's house in Glasgow.
Searching for Tom Waits' Song (00:03:51)Stu shares his quest to find the song "Days of Roses" in a Tower Records store.
First Album Encounter (00:04:53)He describes randomly picking Tom Waits' first album, "Closing Time," and discovering "Martha."
Tom Waits' Unique Style (00:05:21)Stu reflects on Tom Waits' ability to blend beautiful lyrics with unique, often discordant music.
Composing Music Inspired by Story (00:05:40)The host discusses composing music to accompany Stu's story about Tom Waits.
Describing Tom Waits' Piano Style (00:05:42)Stu describes Waits' piano style as rhythmic with jazz undertones, likening it to a barroom piano.
Musical Experimentation (00:06:02)The host and Stu engage in a musical game to refine the style based on Tom Waits.
Musical Discovery Theme (00:07:30)The host summarizes the story as one of musical discovery and sets the scene for the music.
Feedback on the Music Composition (00:10:40)Stu provides feedback on the effectiveness of the music composed for the story.
Another Story Idea (00:11:10)Stu considers sharing a story about his grandfather's bakery, indicating a fond memory.
Memories of Granddad's Bakery (00:11:35)Stu reminisces about visiting his granddad's bakery and the memories associated with it.
Special Cakes and Creativity (00:12:31)He shares stories of unique cakes made by his granddad for family celebrations.
Musical Atmosphere for Bakery Story (00:15:35)The host discusses the musical atmosphere inspired by the bakery's environment.
Reflections on the Podcast Experience (00:16:20)Stu reflects on the value of storytelling in songwriting and the connection to music.
Conclusion of the Episode (00:17:01)The host thanks listeners and invites them to join the next episode of "Impro Pod."