Though it bears its main instrument in its name, "Violinvocations" is anything but a straightforward solo instrumentalist affair.

Rather, the album is a suite of stream-of-consciousness tone poems that propel the violin well beyond its traditional range of expression.

Hugh Marsh started "Violinvocations" when he unexpectedly arrived in Los Angeles with no plans or obligations--only a rare stretch of downtime.

Instead of retreating to his native Toronto, Marsh used the days ahead to record one piece of music every morning at legendary trumpeter Jon Hassell's house, where he stayed over the course of six months.

"Violinvocations" captures a deep well of somber reflection and jocular experimentation – one that is entirely Marsh's own.