Though he joined Seattle’s celebrated Fleet Foxes only last year as drummer and vocalist, singer-songwriter J. (Josh) Tillman has had a prolific solo career. He is currently on tour following the release of his sixth solo album, “Year in the Kingdom,” on Western Vinyl Records.

Tillman performs Friday (Dec. 11) at the Crocodile Cafe, where he’ll perform the title track of the new album (his fourth full-length disc) as well as the haunting “Though I Have Wronged You” and “Earthly Bodies.” It’s a beautifully recorded folk-rock album.

With a hushed, whispery voice that conveys a mystic, brooding power, Tillman spins tales about life and death. Yet he is more hopeful and inspirational on this album than on his previous 2009 release, “Vacilando Territory Blues.” (Two full-length albums in one year, not bad).

Through his stark, sometimes perplexing lyrics, Tillman seems to be telling us to slow the pace of our lives and consider the intricate details of existence with greater depth, as well as the mysteries of the afterlife.

Tillman began working on the album last spring, recording most of the instruments himself over two weeks. Among the instruments are banjo, hammered dulcimer, recorder, cymbals and organs. Jenna Conrad interpreted Tillman’s string arrangements, with Tillman’s husky vocals front-and-center in the mix. Songs range from stripped, man-and-his-guitar tunes to more layered and complex tracks.

With its gorgeous harmonies, handclaps and strings, “Though I Have Wronged You” is a gem that makes no apologies.

“Year in the Kingdom” was released in September. In December, Western Vinyl will release the album on vinyl, as well as a limited-edition, seven-inch single.

Tillman is also featured on the GIVE Seattle compilation due Nov. 17. Read about it here.

Here’s a video of “Firstborn” from Tillman’s last album, “Vacilando Territory Blues”: