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You don’t clock up 20 years as successful producers, remixers and DJs without inspiring a few people along the way, and Chocolate Puma are no exception. In Holland especially, their legacy has been firmly established, with a number of producers citing them as inspirational on their quests to make their own mark on the world of house music production and performance. And as testament to that fact, some of the country’s biggest acts have come out in support of their peers, colleagues and – in some cases – mentors, the inimitable Rene & Gaston.
Gregor Salto
“It must have been about 18 or 19 years ago when I first heard Rene play in a little club in our hometown Haarlem. The track that stood out most in his set was this strange Brazilian drum song that started with that massive drum break. That song later turned out to be their first hit as The Goodmen ‘Give It Up’.
“While I was struggling to get my little studio together they were dropping hit after hit. It was a miracle to me how they could come up with such innovative stuff time after time. Instead of 1-hit wonders that repeat themselves after a big success, they would always come from another angle.They were my biggest influences; I could only hope to one day produce something that would come anywhere near to what they did.
“Obviously I wanted to be in contact with those guys! I would cross town on my bike to drop of a good old DAT tape in their studio, secretly hoping they would invite me in for a session that didn’t happen. Not long ago some connoisseurs put together a list of most influential Dutch dance tracks and although I didn't completely agree on the list, they were right about 1 thing: Rene & Gaston had the most tracks in it. So imagine the impact they have had directly and indirectly on the Dutch as one of the globally leading dance sounds. I'm not only talking about house, I'm also talking Techno & even Trance.
“Anyway, I honestly couldn't come up with any producers that have inspired me more in terms of innovativeness and dance ability, and therefore it was a big honour and pleasure to finally hook up in the studio this past spring for some fresh beats. To be continued…”
Laidback Luke
“Congratulations guys! I need the world to know they are the ones that discovered me. Rene & Gaston are my godfathers in the producing game, and are still going stronger than ever after so many years. Full support from your little big man!”
Bart B More
“As a kid I started admiring them for being one of the first in Holland to make amazing house music, and now after years of knowing and working with them I admire them not only for their music, but also as for being good people, good friends, sharing their knowledge of music and production with the world, their passion for music and for helping me with my career every each way they can.”
Bingo Players
“They were one of the first people who gave us a break with our collaboration ‘Touch Me’. Besides that they are one of the best producers in the dance scene and great guys as well! Cheers on your 20th anniversary! Still a lot more coming from these legends in the coming years!”
House Masters Chocolate Puma is out 11th July – listen & pre-order
