I've often advised even the most talented musicians to keep their day jobs. So what do I get when I Google Kye Alfred Hillig? A LinkedIn entry describing him as a case manager at the Tacoma Housing Authority. I don't know if this is what helps him find so many human stories for his songs, but I also can't imagine a much better occupation for a songwriter. Talk about serendipity.

Kye Alfred Hillig Fossil (self-released)

Hillig plays a style I've decided to call laptop singer/songwriter. These are minimalist, modestly-produced intimate compositions that often open up into full pop glory, but at their own pace. In other words, you can't push Hillig. He knows where he's going and he knows how long it takes to get there.

So, please, give him space. These songs aren't particularly long, but Hillig isn't concerned with the comfort of the listener. How he spins his tales is at least as important as the stories themselves. He has the rare gift of being able to provide exceptional settings for his keenly-observed songs.

Sure, I wish Hillig all the luck in the world, especially the luck to actually make enough money with his music to quit his day job. But I have a feeling that day job is inextricably linked to the richness of his music. As always, be careful of what you wish for.

Jon Worley