ReStructure Mix Update (4/30/13): “Love Is A Natural Thing” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mantus

ReStructure Mix Update (4/30/13): “Love Is A Natural Thing” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mantus

Mantus is a disco band from New York City who began their fame with a radio hit titled, “Turn Around Boogie Down” from 1978 and soon after became a club favorite with follow up tracks “(Dance It) Freestyle Rhythm” and “Rock It To The Top”. The band members consisted  Billy Amendola, Frank DeCrescenzo, Jimmy Maer and Kenny Bee.

I have taken their 1980 single from the second self-titled album titled “Love Is A Natural Thing” which was a return to the independent disco sound which made the club circuit well known with the productions and artists who specialized in creating the mood for the mirror ball nights and underground crowds long before the disco boom in the late 70s.

Taking the 12” version and creating a ReStructure Mix to give the song a longer lasting message which sounds as positive and lyrical as the emotion of disco music. An small anthem now in a new form.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Brian Perry - thank you for the request Brian and keeping the energy and spirit of disco music alive!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/20/13): “Green Light” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cory Daye

ReStructure Mix Update (4/20/13): “Green Light” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cory Daye

Cory Daye is one of the female vocalists in disco music which is familiar in many aspects - not only from the big dance hit “Cherchez La Femme” from 1976 (with Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band) but also her sweet and beautiful delivery. The 1979 solo-album “Cory and Me” contained many dance floor favorites including “Pow Wow”, “Keep The Ball Rollin’” and “Green Light” - produced by Sandy Linzer.

I have taken the 12” version of “Green Light” and created a ReStructure Mix to not only salute this fabulous diva of song - but also the period of disco music where big-band returns with a new twist. The new ReStructure Mix has an extended intro - some new breaks and a hoppin’ beat to keep the light “green” for dancing.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ms. Cory Daye - thank you for sharing your beautiful talent with the dancers all over the world.

ReStructure Mix Update (4/19/13): “Falling In Love Again” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Denise Mc Cann

ReStructure Mix Update (4/19/13): “Falling In Love Again” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Denise Mc Cann

Denise Mc Cann is a disco artist from the late 70s who had some of the most exciting moments during an explosive time in history. Her big club hit “Tattoo Man” from 1976 is one of my favorite dance tracks of all time - not only does the track give us a taste of a wonderful sweet but powerful voice - it also holds the essence of the female disco artist in images and arrangement.

“Falling In Love Again” come from Denise’s second album “I Have A Destiny” from 1979 - produced by Guy Sobell. This track was featured on the B-side in a Medley/Suite which offers a disco-Broadway like production and stage production. It is one of the most dramatic and wonderful sounds of disco music in all it’s glory. I have taken the song out of the medley and created a ReStructure Mix to bring it upfront and extending the fun elements which break this new mix in segments.

A special thank and dedication to Nick and Lindsay for their loving request of this disco gem! For you boys and thanks you again, for keeping the disco feeling alive! It will shine on and on!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/18/13): “Looking Up” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer

ReStructure Mix Update (4/18/13): “Looking Up” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer

Donna Summer released her new sound on the 1980 album “The Wanderer” where she continued using her powerful and able voice to project various sounds and moods. The project was produced by her long-time team Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte - yet there is a new air to these tracks. More of a dance-rock which introduced a whole new destination during the period for Donna. It is now referred to as some of the most loved by those who truly admire her talent.

I have taken the track “Looking Up” and created a new ReStructure Mix to give the rolling synth-rock style piece a new feel - adding a few disco-tech breaks and a new intro. It is one of the string vocal and emotion driven songs by Donna Summer and helps to keep in perspective of what a true artist and talent we have recently lost.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Nick and Lindsay - thank you for asking for a ReStructure Mix of one of my favorite Donna moments - there are many and this is a special one!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/17/13): “I’m Starting Again” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grace Kennedy

ReStructure Mix Update (4/17/13): “I’m Starting Again” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grace Kennedy
Grace Kennedy is a disco singer who ‘started’ her disco career in the 1980 musical/sci-fi film, “The Apple” where she performs and sings her single “Desire”. He career brought three albums to the disco arena - each produced by Phillip Swern who also produced Polly Brown, Inner City Express, and Patti Boulaye.

Grace’s 1981 single “I’m Starting Again” is from her album by the same name. It was a big hit in many clubs still clamoring for the classic disco chanteuse songs. It is one of my favorite and also one of the songs co-written by Thor Baldursson who worked with many disco projects from the Munich recordings in the late 70s and also First Choice.

I have taken the 12” single of “I’m Starting Again” and created a new ReStructure Mix to give the song an alternative version - and also play with some of the fantastic keyboard and vocal elements.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Jerry Joseph Arko from Facebook with thanks to his inspiring look back and forward of the great music which has given so many happiness, freedom and dancing feet!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/16/13): “Can’t Give It Up” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carly Simon

ReStructure Mix Update (4/16/13): “Can’t Give It Up” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carly Simon
Carly Simon’s album “Spoiled Girl” from 1985 had two dance tracks - “My New Boyfriend” and “Can’t Give It Up” - I have always played “Can’t Give It Up” from the short (3:43) album version and always wanted to extend the track. It was produced by Andy Goldmark and features Luther Vandross on back up vocals.

I have taken the album version and created a ReStructure Mix to extend and play with the fabulous chorus by Carly which sounds like an anthem for the mid-80s. Great track and such fun to remix.

ReStructure Mix Update (4/15/13): “You Can Get Over” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stephanie Mills

ReStructure Mix Update (4/15/13): “You Can Get Over” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stephanie Mills

 Stephanie Mills is a vocalist who began a recording career in 1975 with her LP “For The First Time” produced by Hal David and Burt Bacharach. She also starred in the Broadway sensation “The Wiz” which became her vehicle for the 70s and into the disco era with her album “Whatcha Gonna Do With My Lovin’” in 1979 - a powerhouse project with several hits including “Put Your Body In It”, “Feel The Fire”, Whatcha Gonna Do With My Lovin’”  and the uplifting anthem, “You Can Get Over”.

I have taken the 12” version of “You Can Get Over” and created a ReStructure Mix - focusing on the beautiful string sections and rolling synthesizer breaks. Formulating a new dub-like version with the verses intact with a bit more extending and play on words. It is one of my favorite disco songs of all time and an opportunity to enforce my beliefs on our existence where “we” are the center of the universe and a belief in that power is the future of our world!

Dedicated to us all and the power we all possess.

ReStructure Mix Update (4/14/13): “Disco Galaxy” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bombers

ReStructure Mix Update (4/14/13): “Disco Galaxy” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bombers

Bombers is a disco band from Canada produced by George Lagios and Pat Deserio (Kebekelektrik). Their first album was released in 1978 which featured a cover of “The Mexican” and also their first club hit, “Don’t Stop The Music”. It was in 1979 on their “Bombers 2” album where their full potential was executed with “(Everybody) Get Dancing”, “Pistolero”, “Let’s Dance”, “Shake” and “Disco Galaxy” - this session included Busta Jones on bass and vocals - guest vocal on “(Everybody) Get Dancin’ ) by Alma Faye-Brooks, arrangements by Lee Gagnon and also vocals by Tamara Lorincz.

“Disco Galaxy” is one of the tracks which I played out during the albums released and kept my dance floor jumping after the first single “(Everybody) Get Dancing” was given a break. It is a fantastic trip into a place where disco rules the universe and creates a bass and beat driven groove.

I have ReStructured “Disco Galaxy” and have given it a new arrangement and a few new effects to add to the bumpin’ disco energy! One of my favorite types of dance music and another opportunity to feel what the disco dance floor was really like!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/12/13): “Countdown (Here I Come)” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kofi & The Love Tones

ReStructure Mix Update (4/12/13): “Countdown (Here I Come)” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kofi & The Love Tones

Kofi & The Love Tones is a disco project produced by Kevin Anthony Robert - who also produced Simone, Velvette, Linda Lewis and Segue. His music was a big part of the high energy movement from the UK during the early and mid-80s. “Countdown (Here I Come)” is his cover of 1966 soul single (originally produced by Bobby Sanders and arranged by Gene Page).

This high energy favorite is a swirling high energy track that builds and builds with a nice soulful vocal and rolling drums guiding the synthetic strings into a dancer heart. A big club hit during it’s 1984 release. I have taken the ‘Original Version’ from the 12” single and created a ReStructure Mix adding pieces of the original and editing a new arrangement to give the track a new feel and a variable mix.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to George Matiowsky on Facebook for requesting this track to be placed on the cutting block and also for sharing so much wonderful energy with me.

“Sorcerer” by Norma Jean - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Sorcerer” by Norma Jean - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Norma Jean is  one of the members of disco tradition - from her work with Chic (“Dance, Dance, Dance” ) and her backup sessions with Randy Crawford, Will Downing, Aretha Franklin, LutherVandross and Madonna - she has her album “Norma Jean” which contains one of disco music’s iconic songs, “Saturday”. The 1978 album also contained another big single, “Sorcerer” - both tracks arranged and produced by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards.

I have taken “Sorcerer” and blended it with visuals from the 1953 biography/drama “Houdini” starring Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh - it is the story of the spectacular but tragic career of magician and illusionist Harry Houdini. The magic works with the love song whose hero is a magician of the heart.

The film was directed by George Marshall

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

ReStructure Mix Update (4/11/13): “Undercover Lover” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Debbie Jacobs

ReStructure Mix Update (4/11/13): “Undercover Lover” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Debbie Jacobs

Debbie Jacobs (now known as Debbie Jacobs-Rock) is one of those artists that made disco music complete - her 1979 album “Undercover Lover” - produced by Mr. Paul Sabu, was the crowning touch for the end of the disco era. It was exciting and masterful - with the talent of Paul Sabu’s amazing arrangements and innovative use of percussion and orchestra. This is one needed recording in any disco collection or audiophile who wants to capture the best of this period.

I have taken the album version of “Undercover Lover” and created a ReStructure Mix to further the flawless mix and production to an alternative remix. I have used much of the stomping and funky keyboards to play with new play ground for Debbie’s fantastic vocal track.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Mr. Paul Sabu and Ms. Debbie Jacobs-Rock - two icons of the 70s who will never be forgotten for their amazing talents!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/9/13): “Fantasy” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lian Ross

ReStructure Mix Update (4/9/13): “Fantasy” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lian Ross

Lian Ross is a German hi-NRG and Euro-disco singer who began recording in 1985 with her first single, “Say You’ll Never”. Her career took her to a current release in 2012. Lian’s repertoire include a cover of Sylvester’s “Do You Wanna Funk” from 1987 and also her 1985 single “Fantasy” - which is one of my favorites. The song is a mystical theme about a lover from somewhere in the galaxy who visit’s a love struck woman in her fantasy - pure disco material.

I have taken the 12” remix version from 1985 on Power Records out of Canada and created a ReStructure Mix which extends the elements that flow like a disco symphony along with Lian’s sensual vocal along with the Ambrosian accompaniments. I have added a familiar percussion riff to give the song another identifiable dance floor placement.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to George Matiowsky from Face book - and thanks for recommending this magical track for a reedit and ReStructure Mix - and a special thanks to George for being so wonderful to share memories and the wonder of music!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/6/13): “Red Light” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Three Degrees

ReStructure Mix Update (4/6/13): “Red Light” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Three Degrees

The Three Degree were formed in 1963 in Philadelphia, PA and became the voices which made soul and disco a trio of sweet sounds. From hits like “When Will I See You Again” to “Givin’’ Up, Givin In” their sound has always given the ear a pleasant ring. It was in 1978 when these ladies united with disco producer, Giorgio Moroder when the explosion of disco excitement hit. The first project titled “New Dimensions” was quite an event for dance floors - and the follow up, “3D” the following year was another mark in disco history.

I have taken the track “Red Light” from the “3D” album and have given a ReStructure Mix to add a new layer of excitement and fun to the song. It is one of the disco-grooviest songs of the pairing of Moroder and these beautiful ladies of song. The disco beat pounds like a heartbeat for The Three Degrees and makes their voice sound well at home.

ReStructure Mix Update (4/5/13): “Romance ‘83” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Irene Cara

ReStructure Mix Update (4/5/13): “Romance ‘83” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Irene Cara

Irene Cara is known for her big disco hits “Fame” in 1980 and also for “What A Feelin’’ (Flashdance)” from 1983 - many may also remember her in the role of ‘Sparkle’ in the film “Sparkle” from 1976. Her second album in 1983 is produced by disco’s electronic man, Mr. Giorgio Moroder. It was a transition for Moroder from his magic days of creating the sound of electronic disco to moving into the 80s dance trends.

“Romance ‘83” is from the album “What A Feelin’” and was never featured as a single or given much attention - however, I always had a fondness for the lyrical sound of the track and the bouncy 80s synth edge which Moroder created with it. Quite simple but nice for a sample of Irene’s soft and beautiful voice.

I have taken the album version (3:56) and created a new ReStructure Mix playing with the elements and also adding one of Moroder’s classic synth-loops from a well-known hit. It is a whole new experience and ready to bring us back to the simple 80s dance floor!

“Pussy Cat” by Sylvia - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Pussy Cat” by Sylvia - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Sylvia is one of the talented female songwriters, singer, musician, producer and record executives in music history. Her recording career as early as 1951 with her single “Little Boy” as Little Sylvia. Her big hit, “Pillow Talk” from 1973 is one of the sensual tracks of the soul and disco genre which gives Sylvia her recognizable style. “Pussy Cat” is a single released in 1975 - produced by Al Goodman and Harry Ray - this single is similar to the sexy delivery and very playful.

I have taken “Pussy Cat” and paired it with the fantasy slapstick comedy film from 2003, “The Cat In The Hat” starring Mike Myers - and based on the Dr. Suess book by the same name. It has some wonderful visuals and situations that play in another mode of the disco single - but the pairing is more of a visual experience.

The film was directed by Bo Welch

Featuring scenes from “The Cat In The Hat” - RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to my sister, Lolly - who asked me to create a Disco Video Mix using the film “The Cat In The Hat” - and also a surprise for her birthday today, April 4th 2013. Happy Birthday Lolly!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/4/13): “I Go To Rio” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Allen

ReStructure Mix Update (4/4/13): “I Go To Rio” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Allen

Peter Allen is an entertainer from Australia who entertained many with his upbeat style of jazz, blues, pop and disco performances. His 1976 album “Taught By Experts” one of his staple hits, “I Go To Rio” - produced by Brooks Arthur. The track is one of the upbeat numbers which crossed the barrier of adult pop contemporary to world beat/rhythms. A sweet and Latin driven song with the sound of the dance floor diversity of the best clubs of the 70s and even today.

I have taken the short (3:17) album and created a new ReStructure Mix with many breakdowns and extended verses of this hot-hot stage and dance floor song. It is a newer production with new drums, fills and excitement to make Rio last a bit longer!

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Mr. Pete Denis of Coconut Grove, Florida - and thanks for his request to rework this magic song and also for his continued support to keep disco and dance music alive today and forever! This one is for you, Pete!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/2/13): “Walk Away” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bonnie Forman

ReStructure Mix Update (4/2/13): “Walk Away” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bonnie Forman

Bonnie Forman who released two singles in 1982 - her first “All Night” - a disco single produced by Ed O’ Laughlin (Wild Fantasy, Carol Douglas, Dana and Gene) and Kenny Laguna. She was soon picked up by upcoming and promising disco label Wave Records for “Walk Away” - produced by  Mark Berry who was a producer, engineer and remixer from Brooklyn, NY. The single did quite well for the introduction of a synthetic-dance genre taking over the disco edge during the early 80s.

I have taken the vocal and instrumental versions of the 12” single to create a whole new mix of “Walk Away” with a few surprises and new-turns. It was one of my favorites during the peak hours of high energy during the period so remixing it was a fun part of my experience.

ReStructure Mix Update (4/1/13): “I Feel Love Coming” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Modern Rocketry

ReStructure Mix Update (4/1/13): “I Feel Love Coming” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Modern Rocketry

Modern Rocketry is a disco group from San Francisco - Ken Kessie and Morey Goldstein. Their first album from 1985 titled “Modern Rocketry” featured their big dance floor hits, “(I’m Not Your) Stepping Stone”, “Homosexuality”, “Thank God For Men” and “Cuba Libre!”. It was the resurgence of disco’s high energy sound and this studio conceptual band did it to the hilt.

“I Feel Love Coming” is their single from 1987 - a time when high energy from the UK reached it peak and US labels were cranking the last of the pulsating beat and themes from the souls of the dancers out to a wanting audience. It was an exciting time.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “I Feel Love Coming” and created a ReStructure Mix including samples of “love” coming from our Lady of Love’s classic. This gives the song a real ‘disco’ purpose!