Following the launch of her new label and cultural platform PELE PELE earlier this year, NYC-raised, South African-rooted DJ, producer, and curator AQUTIE returns with LATESTATE, a collaborative two-track EP created alongside Brooklyn-based producer L3Ni. Out now as the second release on the imprint, the project serves as a vibrant celebration of nightlife, community, and the emotional connections forged on and beyond the dancefloor.
Inspired by the pulse of New York City’s nightlife and the creative momentum that lingers long after a night out ends, LATESTATE explores the freedom, self-expression, and human connection that define unforgettable evenings. Across two complementary tracks—“AllTheTime” and “Baddiesss”—AQUTIE and L3Ni channel the exhilaration, vulnerability, and nostalgia that emerge in the hours after the club lights come up.
Musically, the EP sits at the crossroads of house music, Afro-electronic influences, and contemporary club sounds. “Baddiesss” delivers the project’s most immediate dancefloor moment, driven by infectious percussion, playful vocal elements, and an unapologetically confident energy designed to command attention. In contrast, “AllTheTime” leans into a warmer, more introspective atmosphere, blending rolling grooves with themes of longing and late-night intimacy. Together, the tracks present two sides of the same experience—the thrill of losing yourself in a crowd and the quiet emotions that surface when the night begins to wind down.
The project emerged organically from countless evenings spent navigating dancefloors, after-parties, and impromptu studio sessions throughout New York. That shared experience helped shape a creative partnership rooted in movement, community, and a deep appreciation for the culture surrounding club music.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the EP, AQUTIE shared:
“LATESTATE came about when we were having some of our best nights in NYC and fully embracing everything the city has to offer. We’d go out one night and come back the next day inspired with new ideas for music.”
She continued:
“‘Baddiesss’ is a call-to-action, unapologetic anthem that celebrates anyone who’s not afraid to let loose on the dance floor and look good while doing it. ‘AllTheTime’ captures that late-night, after-hours feeling when you’re missing that special someone and want to be close to them at the end of the night.”
“Together, these records embody the energy, freedom, connection and nostalgia that define the nightlife experience. LATESTATE is our soundtrack to those unforgettable nights that seem to last forever.”
For L3Ni, the collaboration reflects the natural chemistry developed through shared experiences both on the dancefloor and in the studio.
“This collaborative EP truly captures the energy we both bring to the dance floor,” says L3Ni. “I think you can hear both of our personalities in every track. The music came together naturally and organically, born from some really fun nights out in Brooklyn and a shared love of the sounds and experiences that keep us moving.”
The release arrives amid a breakout period for AQUTIE, whose work continues to bridge global club culture, diaspora identity, and community-building. With performances at major stages and events including Coachella, Boiler Room, Brooklyn Mirage, and Factory Town, alongside appearances and collaborations connected to artists such as Black Coffee, Keinemusik, Carl Cox, and Skepta, she has emerged as one of dance music’s most compelling and culturally conscious voices.
Launched in 2026, PELE PELE extends that vision beyond traditional music releases. Conceived as a platform for events, creative experiences, and cultural exchange, the imprint reflects AQUTIE’s commitment to creating spaces where rhythm, movement, and connection remain at the forefront. With LATESTATE, she and L3Ni deliver a soundtrack that encapsulates those ideals, capturing the memories, emotions, and energy that keep people returning to the dancefloor night after night.
AQUTIE: Apple Music | Spotify | Soundcloud | Bandcamp | Beatport | Instagram | RA Page | KOMI Page
L3Ni: Apple Music | Spotify | Soundcloud | Bandcamp | Beatport | Instagram | RA Page
PELE PELE: Instagram