Erwin, the Berlin-based DJ and producer, launches Arepas Records, and debuts the label’s first release – the Arepas EP. The multi-faceted artist, formerly known as Florian Rietze, presents a finely crafted 5-track EP that weaves deep, minimal, and ambient house into a journey of intricate rhythms, refined percussion, and smooth harmonic textures. The record moves effortlessly between floor-focused energy and introspective late-night moods, offering a balanced and immersive listening experience. Arepas EP is scheduled for release on September 26th 2025 on both vinyl and the Bandcamp. Presales have already started and the vinyl will be available via Deejay, Decks, Bandcamp, Juno, Phonica Records and Elevate Berlin.
The EP opens with Arepas, a rolling dancefloor gem that sets the tone. Smooth melodic loops, vocoder-processed vocals, and crisp rhythms build toward an atmospheric, almost symphonic break, delivering a cinematic lift before sliding back into the groove — sleek, groovy, and emotionally charged. Well Deserved follows with crisp snares, rolling percussion, and a delicate female vocal sample, driving a warm, spacious rhythm forward. Infinite Fries blends hypnotic layers with catchy vocal loops and playful piano motifs, creating an infectious, percussion-driven groove. Things slow down with Blueberry Cream, a lush, sensual piece led by emotive piano and breathy vocals that unfold gradually in a hazy, intimate atmosphere. The release closes with Aguardiente, a solo piano track that evokes the quiet of a bar after hours — melancholic yet comforting, a final emotional exhale.
Arepas Records is a boutique label dedicated to deep house, minimal house, and ambient/breaks — blending dancefloor grooves with culinary-inspired storytelling. The first release introduces the label’s signature concept: each EP is presented like a course on a tasting menu, complete with food-themed titles and artwork. The first four records will be released as a collectible series, with sleeves that connect to form one complete artwork when placed together.
Erwin is the alias of Berlin-based producer and vinyl enthusiast Florian Rietze, introduced in 2025 as a return to analog warmth and stripped-back grooves. A longtime producer, composer, and dedicated crate digger, Erwin brings meticulous craftsmanship to every track. As Florian Rietze, he has spent over a decade performing across Europe and beyond, with appearances at Kater Blau, ://about blank, Rex Club, De Marktkantine, Hive, Glow Bangkok, Marvellous Island Festival, and more. His discography includes acclaimed releases such as Traces (Male Cmos), Forgive Me (Delicieuse Musique), Point of View (Click Records), and remixes for artists like Luca Musto and Miichiii, showcasing his wide-ranging style and emotional depth.
“I’m super excited about the launch of Arepas Records and the first release,” says Erwin. “The label brings together my two biggest passions — good music and good food. My productions reflect everything I’ve experienced so far: from my multifaceted creative work and time in the studio with other artists, to my travels and exposure to different cultures. The idea behind the label is to build a community of like-minded producers, each bringing their own signature sound and flavor. We’re already accepting demos, and I want to encourage producers to send us their tracks.”
