Thursday, January 31, 2013

"September" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Earth Wind & Fire


"September" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Earth Wind & Fire

Earth Wind & Fire are one of the successful and acclaimed bands of the 70s - expressing their talent through soul, disco, R&B and funk. The talented list of members are lead by Maurice White, Verdine White, Philip Bailey and Ralph Johnson.

Their 1978 album "The Best of Earth Wind and Fire Vol. I" featured their new single, "September" which today is an old-school/disco classic. The use of horns, guitars, vocals and ominous feeling gave this track one of the most memorable experiences.

I have taken the 3:37 minute version and a have added some new parts and pieces to create an underground and moody feel below the blaring celebration and also give it a more hardcore club feel. But not leaving out the horns and sensational vocals. Lots of loops and edits are a part of this ReStructure Mix.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

"Playboy" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - France Joli


"Playboy" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - France Joli

France Joli is the one of the biggest gifts to disco lovers. She is the disco candy any dancer or beat-lover could ever ask for. Her 1979 album "France Joli" is one of the classic New York disco sounds to this day. Combined talents of Canada on this project include, Peter Dowse, Denis LePage, Miguel Fuentes, The Sweethearts of Sigma, and Mr. Tony Green.

"Playboy" is from the "fourgy" of dance-delights on this project and is the sound of disco music in it's changing of club sounds and execution. I have taken the album version and have given the track a ReStructure Mix - looping, chopping and sprinkling some new beats, effects and vocal effects to bring this diva back to front of the stage where she belongs!

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

"Hold Tight" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio


"Hold Tight" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio

Gino Soccio is one of the second wave of disco artists to become a major innovator - following in the footsteps of Giorgio Moroder - using technology and band elements to create a a new disco sound. His first LP "Outline" is held as one of the most influential projects of the time - the big disco hits, "Dancer" and "The Visitors" are the proof.

I have taken "Hold Tight" from Soccio's 1981 album "Closer" and have given it a ReStructure Mix to add a new dimension of rhythm and effect-s to the mix. It was never featured as a 12" mix and so the mood was on when I thought of placing a new edit and remix to this bouncy and infectious tune.

Monday, January 28, 2013

“One Shot Lover” by Venus – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera


“One Shot Lover” by Venus – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Venus is a high energy disco group from Alvers, Belgium – the band consisted of Ellen, Leen, Sinthia, Chantal and Christel. A group began recording in 1980 and continued through 2000. They are best known for their 1984 high energy disco hit, “One Shot Lover” – produced by Frank Sauter who also produced Dance Reaction, Lady Butterfly and Boomgang.

“One Shot Lover” is treated to a Disco Video Mix along with the 1962 British spy film “Dr. No” – which is the first of the James Bond film series. It stars Sean Connery and Ursula Andress. The action adventure tale of Dr. Julius No, who plots to disrupt a manned space launch with his evil radio beam weapon.

The action flows with the synth tracks and sexy images along the James Bond tradition.

The film was directed by Terence Young

Featuring scenes from “Dr. No” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

"It's For You" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine featuring Chris Bennett


"It's For You" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine featuring Chris Bennett

Munich Machine is one of the disco projects from Giorgio Moroder which became of the electronic disco sound thanks to many talented players who many were apart of the disco movement in Germany during the mid-70s. With a touch of Moroder's synthesizers and sequencers creating the pumping energy new to ears and feet.

"It's For You" is from the second Munich Machine album from the famed disco label Casablanca Records where a new blend of sexuality and the disco beat were created. Vocals on this project featured Chris Bennett - who also recorded with Moroder on his "Love's In Me, Love's In You" project - another experimental disco project where his keyboards and electronic work were being formulated.

I have taken the album version of "It's For You" and worked a ReStructure Mix which falls more in an underground mood - with lots of dark percussion and phasing-reworked synths from the original track. It is a new experience in hearing Chris' beautiful vocals and Moroder's magic!

Monday, January 21, 2013

"Physical" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Olivia Newton-John


"Physical" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Olivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John is an English-Australian singer and began recording in 1971 and throughout present she remains active in music. Her voice was the sound of 70s pop ballads and a glamour celebrity whom always seemed to be in the right place at the right time.

Her 1981 album "Physical" is her 80s homage with the title track which is the pop-dance record that was silly and a bit teasing - but always remained one of the fun aspects of Olivia's repertoire. The project was produced by John Farrar.

This ReStructure Mix takes the album version and brings the simple radio arrangement to a more hardcore feel. I have added a lot of new breaks and vocal-play to make this workout even more fun!

Sunday, January 20, 2013

"Keep In Touch (Body To Body)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shades of Love


"Keep In Touch (Body To Body)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shades of Love

The Shades of Love are a disco session produced by Lonnie Johnson and Patrick Adams - also appearing are r&b vocalist Melissa Morgan on flawless lead vocals and Peggy Dodson in the backup ensemble.

One of the best disco-funk tracks of 1982 this is the low-down of the transition from disco to funk in the early 80s. Done with sophistication and soul. It is also one of the guaranteed floor packers for me.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Elizabeth Ruiz-Kessep - thank you for the request and the support!

Friday, January 18, 2013

"Nightline" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Randy Crawford


"Nightline" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Randy Crawford

Randy Crawford is a jazz vocalist who released her debut album in 1976. Her contribution to jazz and dance music were noted most indefinitely with her recording of "Street Life" with The Crusaders in 1979.

"Nightline" is Randy's album from 1983 and centers on the title track which was released during the 80s dance movement - so much of the production is intense and synth-pop.

I have taken the 12" remix - both vocal and dub to create a new ReStructure Mix -a re-EQ on both both and revitalizing the energy with most of the fast and hypnotic sound of the original mix. It is a new experience.

Thursday, January 17, 2013

“Break Me” by Charade featuring Norman Lewis – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera


“Break Me” by Charade featuring Norman Lewis – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera 

A salute to 80s high energy and horror!

Charade is a disco group from UK producer John Davies – who also gave us the high-energy hit, “Got To Get To You” from 1983 and also Norma Lewis’ “Give Me Back My Heart” from 1983. Norma is also featured as vocalist again on “Break Me. This is the peak of high energy during the mid-80s and the full sound of Passion Records.

I have taken the horror flick “Bride Of Chucky” from 1998 starring Jennifer Tilly and blended the gothic-like feel of the disco track with the maniacal horror-dark comedy. It plays out with the feel of the song and the images that Chucky has always brought to our homes!

The film was directed by Ronny Yu

Featuring scenes from “Bride Of Chucky” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

"The Medicine Song" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stephanie Mills


"The Medicine Song" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stephanie Mills

Stephanie Mills is a disco/soul artist who appeared in the Broadway production of "The Wiz" in 1975. He singing career has been a touching one thanks to her talent of taking a ballad and painting an anthem. We are fortunate that her musical career led her to the disco arena.

"The Medicine Song" is from Stephanie's 1984 album "I've Got The Cure" produced by George Duke. The song immediately became a big radio and club hit. It is the sound of the 80s dance scene with the mood and mix which helped to keep disco alive.

I have taken the 12" vocal and dub to create a new ReStructure Mix along with some old advice from Julie Andrews. This is a newly pieced and edited version to give those who know just what that "cure" is!

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

“Sweet Dynamite” by Claudja Barry – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera


“Sweet Dynamite” by Claudja Barry – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Claudja Barry is one of disco music’s main diva forces. She was active during the days of the upcoming dance boom. Much of her music is now classics among the still vibrant club scene.

“Sweet Dynamite” is from her 1976 album by the same name – produced by her husband, Jurgen S. Korduletsch. A big old-school disco classic. I have taken the 1973 Blaxploitation flick, “Cleopatra Jones” starring Tamara Dobson. The action and high-energy scenes from the film play well with the strings and funky-ass bass of Ms. Barry’s explosive track!

The film was directed by Jack Starrett

Featuring scenes from “Cleopatra Jones” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

"It Doesn't Only Happen At Night" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cissy Houston


"It Doesn't Only Happen At Night" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cissy Houston

Cissy Houston is one of disco music long-time vocals including sessions with Sweet Inspirations, Zulema, Herbie Mann, Bionic Boogie, Michael Zager Band and Love Child's Afro Cuban Blues Band. Her 1980 album "Step Aside For A Lady" is another disco project from producer, Michael Zager and contains two of the big disco tracks of that year: "You're The Fire" and "It Doesn't Only Happen At Night".

I have the album version of "It Doesn't Only Happen At Night" and have given it a few lifts here and there - including a new intro and break-beat to make those horns and funky guitars sound even deeper. This is one of favorite from Cissy who reined during the disco era with "Think It Over".

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Nick and Lindsay - and done per their wonderful request and advice to keep those great disco tracks alive!

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

“Was That All It Was” by Jean Carn – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera


“Was That All It Was” by Jean Carn – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Jean Carn is the soul/jazz/disco singer with the classic Philly-heartbreak song ever recorded – “Was That All It Was”. From her 1979 album “When I Find You Love” produced by Jerry Butler and John L. Usry, Jr. – this being one of the untouchable classics which continues to move dance floors emotions and feet.

I have taken the 1942 drama/romance film classic “Casablanca” starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman and used pieces of facial shots and mild action to paint a new picture for this disco epic song. It moves well with the tears and farewell romance to suit the emotion and power of Ms. Carn’s vocal and lyrics by Jerry Butler, John L. Usry, Jr. and Linda Conlon

The film was directed by Michael Curtiz

Featuring scenes from “Casablanca” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

"Disco Symphony" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lightning


"Disco Symphony" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lightning

Lightning is a disco band from John Henderson and Jeff Ross - both guitarist from nu-wave/rock bands who created some of the most beautiful and funky disco music on this project. A member of the glam-rock band Kiss (Paul Caravello) played drums on the project also.

The project was produced by Lewis Merenstein (The Main Attraction, Van Morrison, Phyllis Hyman, The Spencer Davis Group), Ralph Moss and disco DJ and remixer Howard Merritt (who remixed Ultimate's "Touch Me Baby" 12")

"Disco Symphony" is the first and most memorable track from the collection love songs with a beat here. It rings out with a great mellow-rock edge vocal and the elements of late 70s disco music. It is one of the most contagious pieces.

I have given the track a ReStructure Mix with a new intro-exit and some curring here and there. It is a wonderful song to get lost in and still captures my heart!

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

“Extra Terrestrial” by Donna Rhodes – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

  
“Extra Terrestrial” by Donna Rhodes – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Donna Rhodes is a singer and a former member of Rhodes, Chalmers & Rhodes who also released a solo singe in 1982 titled “Extra Terrestrial” – which of course was a parody timely released close to the film, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”. It is an electro-disco production with a bit of nu-wave-rock blending with the 50’s science fiction edge.

I have taken the cult-film “Rocky Horror Picture Show” from 1975 and paired it with the pumping disco tracks connecting the two with the films premise that our characters from the infamous castle are aliens from outer-space. So it is a “different set of jaws” playing a “different type of extra-terrestrial.” It moves with the action like a space craft on an emergency mission.

The film was directed by Jim Sharman

Featuring scenes from “Rocky Horror Picture Show” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

Monday, January 7, 2013

"Don't Turn Away" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Thomas Dolby


"Don't Turn Away" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Thomas Dolby

Thomas Dolby is a name which stood out following his big dance floor hit "She Blinded Me With Science" in 1982. It was a new take on the electronic pop-wave of the period. His work included artist Ofra Haza, Adele Bertei, Magic's Wand and also the soundtrack to the 1987 film, "Gothic".

"Don't Turn Away" is a song from the soundtrack of "Howard The Duck" from 1986 - also featuring his project Dolby's Cube. The album version was always one of my favorite ways to start out the evening. It has a wonderful bass line and melodic feel. One of Thomas Dolby's most lovely pieces. It also features Steve Wonder on harmonica.

I have taken the album version of "Don't Turn Away" and created a ReStructure Mix with a new intro and a few breaks. The song was featured as a longer 12" version with a vocal by Lea Thompson which is nice although Dolby's is much more fitting for me.

Friday, January 4, 2013

"Lady Night" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Juvet


"Lady Night" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Juvet


Patrick Juvet is a vocalist from Montreux, Switzerland who began recording in 1973 - he has worked with Jean-Michel Jarre on his 1977 disco album "Paris By Night". In 1978 he was added to the artist roster at the monster disco label Casablanca Records and paired with producer, Jacques Morali - who was on a roll with his projects with The Ritchie Family, Village People, and Phylicia Allen.

"Lady Night" is the second album from Patrick on Casablanca and has the disco edge that dominated the top disco influence of the time. The title track I have created a ReStructure Mix to give the song a new spotlight with some elements to make this night more exciting.

Thursday, January 3, 2013

"Back In The Day" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jones Girls


"Back In The Day" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jones Girls

The Jones Girls are Brenda Jones, Shirley Jones and Valorie Jones - a soul/funk/disco trio from Detroit, Michigan. Their first big disco hit is "You Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else" from their first album in 1979. One of the last great Philly-disco tracks.

"At Peace With Woman" is their second album from 1980 - produced by Dexter Wansel, Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff. I have taken the album version of "Back In The Day" from the project and have given it a ReStructure Mix to give it a bookmark - where I would spin the album version hoping someday for an extended version.

The song has a fun and light take on the reflection of good times but with a great resolution of good times were just as crazy and well as good times today. A very nice hook!

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