Elke Louie’s "Killing Time" represents a hauntingly beautiful debut in indie folk

Up-and-coming Queensland singer-songwriter Elke Louie makes her mark on Australia's modern music landscape with her debut single, "Killing Time. The song’s dreamy and whispered spell is a brief but quietly compelling introduction to her art. The song is a lovely first taste of her debut EP, due early next year. It's a small example of what makes Elke one of the most exciting new voices in indie folk, emotional honesty, acoustic warmth, and a storyteller's heart.

"Killing Time" has that kind of soft proximity that makes you want to slow down and linger. Elke's voice is frail and strong at the same time, and it takes over in the song with pure truthfulness. Her delivery walks a fine line between openness and strength, as though she were opening up to anyone who has ever stood in the quiet moments of any life. Her grounded acoustic style contrasts nicely with her lyrical sensibility, making the music feel personal yet also echoing experiences that are universal for everyone.

It was recorded by Clare and Lawrence of Those Folk at Mantle Records. The production does not overshadow Elke's own tone at any point but instead uplifts it. It’s a fine position for an artist who has already begun attracting notice with her hard-knotted lyrics and coruscating voice. That she was working with the likes of Jen Mize, who has worked as support for The Rough and Tumble, and Clare Quinn from Those Folk reveals just how substantial her early work is for an artist.

More than a first book, "Killing Time" is a promise. A hint, perhaps, of some kind of realness, or some emotional depth, an artist who might be ready to carve out a space for herself in the indie folk world. With the forthcoming EP "LAVENDER" on its way from Elke Louie, it's set to be a colourful musical ride. "Killing Time" is the opener and absolutely unforgettable.

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