ReStructure Mix Update (1/28/15) “Music In My Heart” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ultimate

ReStructure Mix Update (1/28/15) “Music In My Heart” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ultimate

Ultimate is a project from producer Juliano Salerni and co-producer/engineer Bruce Weeden. The project is very similar to Boris Midney’s USA European Connection album “Come Into My Heart/Good Loving” with a layer more of orchestration. The Euro-disco sound was exploding in 1978 thanks to artists/producers like Cerrone and Alec R. Constandinos. It was a Philly sound with more breakdowns and clever themes guiding dancers through a journey. “Music In My Heart” is one of the album cuts which always reminded me of the hardcore shift in top disco tracks of the time. The vocals are credited by Ultimate which are close to the Midney session a year earlier.

I have taken the album version of “Music In My Heart” and created a ReStructure Mix with an electronic minded intro and then extended pieces and parts which ring out the sound of disco which helped to define its sound during the late 70s.

ReStructure Mix Update (1/27/15) “What A Difference A Day Makes” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Esther Phillips

ReStructure Mix Update (1/27/15) “What A Difference A Day Makes” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Esther Phillips

Esther Phillips is a soul/blues singer whose talent included taking songs and making them all her own. A unique style of singing that is recognizable and continues to bring an experience to new and old listeners. Her 1975 album “What A Difference A Day Makes” produced by Creed Taylor contained a soul/disco cover of the 1934 track originally written in Spanish by Maria Grever – it was later made popular by Dinah Washington in 1959 and also won a Grammy that year. Esther’s upbeat version has a nice resonance thanks to her bluesy touch and a rhythmic instrumental.

I have taken the album version and worked a ReStructure Mix adding a longer intro and some kick drums to give the excitement a new edge. Parts of Dinah’s version are added to give another triumph a star.

This ReStructure Mix was requested by Nick and Lindsay and dedicated to these two wonderful men who bring so much excitement to my world of music and a thrill in hearing the women of song in their glory. Thanks, guys.

ReStructure Mix Update (1/26/15) “Boys Say Go” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Depeche Mode

ReStructure Mix Update (1/26/15) “Boys Say Go” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Depeche Mode
Depeche Mode is Martin L. Gore, Dave Gahan, Andrew Fletcher, Alan Wilder and Vince Clarke – one of the 80s new breed of electronic dance music in the early 80s. Their music lasted to present and gives off a darker and more underground feel of pulses for dance floors to take that deeper plunge. Much of the rhythms are innovative and also cross a barrier of funk-i-fied synth-pop. “Boys Say Go” is from their “Speak and Spell” album from 1981 and is pressed at a short edit version – a longer excursion is demonstrated in this ReStructure Mix.

I have taken the 3:04 album version and worked a new ReStructure Mix with more kick and action which helps to not only extend the original but also stir a bit more life into the track.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Jax Hammer who gives me the support and excitement again for disco music that is appreciated and held in the heart. Thank you, Jax – enjoy!

ReStructure Mix Update (1/21/15) “Love Money” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Funk Masters

ReStructure Mix Update (1/21/15) “Love Money” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Funk Masters

Funk Masters is an electronic funk project from the UK during the early and late 80s. Their sound is one of the innovative movements utilizing deep bass and funk keyboards. Their first single “(Money) No Love” is from 1980 and featured a 12” single with an instrumental flip titled “Love Money”. A true Paradise Garage record which gained the support of greats like Larry Levan during the new direction of dance e music.

I have taken both side of the12” single – “(Money) No Love” and “Love Money” to create this alternative ReStructure Mix which focuses on the instrumental – adding a touch of the rap. A few new elements and a bass line from the disco treasury are placed to funk things up a bit more.

“Call Me Tonight” by Cerrone – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Call Me Tonight” by Cerrone – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Cerrone’s 1979 project “Angelina” is a continuance of his genius in both composition and execution of dance floor fantasy. The classic track “Call Me Tonight” features Michelle Aller on lead vocals and a sensual yearning that has made followers of both new and old Cerrone fans. One of my all-time favorites of the time and also for years following as I have experienced the track during early morning dance programs and watched dancers reach a new level of excitement with its musical flow and the fantastic trip is creates.

I have taken scenes from the 1984 suspense drama “Mike’s Murder” starring Debra Winger – minus the drug references and crime scenes – I have lit a new flame for the love story between Debra and Mark Keyloun. It plays our as sensual as the disco track and also gives a nice interpretation of what Cerrone’s music spells out.

The film was directed by James Bridges

Featuring scenes from “Mike’s Murder” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

“If There’s Love” by Amant – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“If There’s Love” by Amant – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Amant is a studio group from producer/artist Ray Martinez from 1978 and a vital project in bringing a new brand of dance music to dance floors and a generation. The two track album featured the disco hit “If There’s Love” which was always a top 10 disco hit for me and reminds me of a beautiful Euro-disco edge brought to the Miami sound with its own flavor.

I have taken the song and blended it in this Disco Video Mix with the 1982 drama “Shoot The Moon” starring Albert Finney and Diane Keaton – a story of a couple’s painful and drawn out marital problems and breakup. It lays out some dramatic images and scenes to play out to Amant’s emotional piece.

This Disco Video Mix is lovingly dedicated to Mr. Ray Martinez for his wonderful talent which he has left for us to feel forever. Thank you, Ray and we all look forward to your new Amant project!

The film was directed by Alan Parker

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

ReStructure Mix Update (1/19/15) “Have A Good Time” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Salsoul Orchestra

ReStructure Mix Update (1/19/15) “Have A Good Time” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Salsoul Orchestra

The Salsoul Orchestra released their project “How High” in 1978 and featured tracks produced by Colin Horton Jennings, Steve O’ Donnell, Ron Baker, Bunny Sigler and Ron Tyson. The dance number “Have A Good Time” is one of the songs which brought another bump to dance floors with its anthem flavor and homage to the disco scene. The track features The Sweethearts of Sigma (Barbara Ingram, Carla Benson and Evette Benson) on vocals and a funky groove with that Salsoul arrangement.

I have taken the album version of “Have A Good Time” and reworked a ReStructure Mix to give the track a new facelift with some familiar percussion and repeat that “disco chant” with evidence that an era of uplifting energy will always bring to mind not only a great memory but continue to mesmerize us with rhythm.

ReStructure Mix Update (1/16/15) “The Duel” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Giorgio Moroder

ReStructure Mix Update (1/16/15) “The Duel” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Giorgio Moroder

Giorgio Moroder dominated the late 70s and early 80s an innovation creator of dance music with a life of its own. His contribution to the 1984 film “Electric Dreams” is a simple example of his continuing play with keyboards and sequencers in a way which evokes the early 80s dance platform. “The Duel” is from the soundtrack and before you dismiss it as being simple or elementary you must understand the meaning of it in the film which is the early technology boom of computers verses classic instruments – in this case a cello. It is Moroder playing with not only the soundtrack end (which also includes his classic title them sung by Philip Oakley) but also pairing his music with visuals.

I have taken the album version of “The Duel” and created a ReStructure Mix with a new intro and some play on the flowing sound of strings and keyboards over a bouncy bass 80s beat. It offers a longer play and also a bit of fun with the mind of Moroder.

ReStructure Mix Update (1/14/15) “That’s Where The Happy People Go” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Trammps

ReStructure Mix Update (1/14/15) “That’s Where The Happy People Go” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Trammps
The Trammps are a soul ensemble from the 60’s whose influence of disco music is a great memory for many who experienced the transition in the mid-70s of soul/Philly blend to a club/disco feel. Their 1976 hit “Disco Inferno” is still an iconic piece of dance music. “That’s Where The Happy People Go” from the album by the same name is another anthem which brings a groove which helped to make dance floor intentity with both the music as well as the discotheque scene.

I have taken the 12” version of “That’s Where The Happy People Go” and worked a new ReStructure Mix to bring out that hand-clappin’ groove with a new arrangement and a few added breaks. The chorus is one of the great tie-line with the mid-70s scene and brings back the excitement all over again.

ReStructure Mix Update (1/13/15) “High Energy” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Evelyn Thomas

ReStructure Mix Update (1/13/15) “High Energy” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Evelyn Thomas

Evelyn Thomas began recording in 1976 – her first single “Doomsday” produced by Danny Leake and Ian Levine. The path of soul and funk music to disco leads her success to brighter days. Her 1984 project “High Energy” produced again by Ian Levine along with Fiachra Trench gave way to a new anthem for the 80s dance scene. This track blasted its way into club and created excitement and energy. With Evelyn’s fabulous vocal and performances this one took off like a firecracker in flames.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to create this ReStructure Mix which focuses on “High Energy” as an event more than a dance track. It pulses in and out of the fantastic instrumental and Evelyn’s classic vocal version. It was always a huge number in my book and continues to remind me of the power of music and uplifting theme!

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the lovely Ms. Evelyn Thomas – who has never left us short of emotion and energy. Thank you, Evelyn!

ReStructure Mix Update (1/12/15) “The Twilight Tone” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Manhattan Transfer

ReStructure Mix Update (1/12/15) “The Twilight Tone” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Manhattan Transfer

The Manhattan Transfer is Alan Paul, Janis Siegel, Laurel Masse and Tim Hauser – the vocal group began recording in 1971 and time the them into 1979 and a disco track from their “Extensions” album. The track is clever use of the classic feel of the vocal foursome and also added a disco edge with a take on the theme from the classic television show “The Twilight Zone” by Bernard Hermann – the recording also features Jeff Porcaro on drums and bongos and Michael Boddicker on synthesizers.

I have taken the album version and worked a refreshing ReStructure Mix with much more of that mystic “twilight tone” and a few new breaks. It was always a successful dance floor track for me and from its following it has left a good mysterious memory in many dancers’ minds.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Jenny Moreno – thanks for your kind words and for requesting this great tune!

ReStructure Mix Update (1/11/15) “Shadow Dancing” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Andy Gibb

ReStructure Mix Update (1/11/15) “Shadow Dancing” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Andy Gibb

Andy Gibb is one of the younger siblings of the Bee Gee’s trio. His solo career as a pop singer and teen idol began in 1977 and following the release of his single “Shadow Dancing” in 1978 a whole new audience and following of the funky-pop edge was created. The track was produced by Albhy Galuten and Barry Gibb with the sound that the Bee Gees molded in the mid-70s. It is more of a radio success than club although many jocks with dancers yearning for that Bee Gees edge found it a nice bump and grind piece.

I have taken the 12” extended version of “Shadow Dancing” and created a new ReStructure Mix with more rhythm break-down and some play with segments of the vocal. It plays out more like a dub mix during the last breath – but also stays true to the original mix.

“Paradise Island” by The Wonderland Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Paradise Island” by The Wonderland Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

The Wonderland Band is a concept disco project with theme focusing on super-heroes – Wonder Woman and Superman. The production by Morrie Brown (Evelyn King, B.T. Express) is a full orchestration with the funky band feel of the last of the classic disco themed projects. All of the tracks from the “Wonder Woman” album are feasible for disco and high energy and a few are now classics. “Paradise Island” is an anthem for the fantasy world of disco dance floors and maintains its feel even today. A new take of the source of super-hero Wonder Woman and the island of her training to fight for truth and justice.

I have created a Disco Video Mix using scenes from the 1975 television series focusing on the pilot that displays Paradise Island and the brief scenic visuals. Lynda Carter’s beauty and the now camp-transformation allows this disco fantasy to become a short reality here.

The show was created by Charles Moulton

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

“Reflections” by Evelyn Thomas – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Reflections” by Evelyn Thomas – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Evelyn Thomas gives a performance with brings emotions and energy together in her 1985 single “Reflections” – a cover of the 1967 song by The Supremes. This drum pounding high energy winner is one of my favorite’s pieces from the 80s and contains the Evelyn Thomas performance of a lifetime – very suitable and driven. The track was produced by Ian Levine and Fiachra Trench.

I have taken scenes from the 1976 Italian musical-fantasy “A Matter Of Time” starring Liza Minnelli – the film also stars Ingrid Bergman however the focus for this Disco Video Mix relies on Liza’s performance. The drama and heartbreak of “Reflections” is brought to life with visions of Liza ‘reflecting’ on a friendship and love in the movies storyline. It gives Evelyn’s fabulous track a new meaning.

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Ms. Evelyn Thomas – in thanks for all of the magic she has given dance floors around the world.

The film was directed by Vincent Minnelli

Featuring scenes from "A Matter Of Time" RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

ReStructure Mix Update (1/8/15) “I Got A Line On You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Patrick Cowley

ReStructure Mix Update (1/8/15) “I Got A Line On You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Patrick Cowley

Patrick Cowley worked on several projects during the late 70s which began his fantastic synthesizer-dose along with his vision of a futuristic dance fusion sound. Tracks like Sylvester’s “Dance (Disco Heat)” reached levels of energy with Cowley’s assistance. “Menergy” is his 1981 album which brought dance floors a new sound and imagination to move and fantasize with. “I Got A Line On You” is a single from this project and a cover of the 1968 psychedelic rock track by Spirit. An appropriate remake for Cowley to tackle since his electronic work was a psychedelic-electro layer on disco music itself.

I have taken the album version of “I Got A Line On You” – which features vocals by Jo-Carol Block Davidson and Lauren Carter (also known as Jolo) and created a ReStructure Mix using the original version in parts and also enhancing Cowley’s original arrangement. It is a mind-bending song as a disco track and the new version adds to the trip.

“Tiger Baby” by Silver Convention – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Tiger Baby” by Silver Convention – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
   
Silver Convention released their first album “Save Me” in 1975 – produced by Michael Kunze. “Tiger Baby” is one of the singles which gives the formula of the groups sound in strings and sweet-sexy harmonies. It is the disco-boogie period of history which makes the essence of this music come alive. I have taken the album version of the song to create a Disco Video Mix to pay homage to these wonderful ladies and Mr. Michael Kunze for his vision and gift to dance floors.

“The Tiger Woman” is a 1944 serial film which was released by Republic Pictures – it stars Linda Stirling as the lovely black and white creature. The episode “Perils of the Darkest Jungle” provide some of the action for our disco landscape.

The film was directed by Spencer Bennett and Wallace Grissell

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

ReStructure Mix Update (1/6/15) “(The Best Part Of) Breakin’ Up” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Roni Griffith

ReStructure Mix Update (1/6/15) “(The Best Part Of) Breakin’ Up” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Roni Griffith

Roni Griffith gave the early 80s a nice path into high energy music with her solo album produced by Bobby Orlando. This formula involved Orlando’s wall of percussion and his light iconic synthesizer accompaniment. One of the most seductive of his sounds with Roni’s voice presenting a nice femme a la disco beat performance. “(The Best Part Of) Breakin’ Up” is a cover of The Ronettes 1964 pop-track – originally arranged by Jack Nitzche. This full force disco arrangement gives us a jungle pounding percussion outline. It is one of the most recognizable and one of Orlando’s most memorable works.

I have taken the 12” single and looped that jungle sound into a ReStructure Mix adding only a few new rhythm beats and additional kicks to give this ritual another dub-like opportunity to move you head, feet and soul. A big hit for most that played it and will always mark the disco career of Ms. Griffith.

Dedicated to Ms. Roni Griffith for her wonderful work and energy given to clubs and dancers.

ReStructure Mix Update (1/5/15) “I’m Gonna Make You Want Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gina Lamour

ReStructure Mix Update (1/5/15) “I’m Gonna Make You Want Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gina Lamour

Gina Lamour is a high energy disco artist from the early and mid-80s who follows the path of synth-pop artists like Stacy Q. Her sound is a sensual and dramatic delivery of disco stage appeal with the lip gloss and pulsating beat. “I’m Gonna Make You Want Me” is her 1985 single produced by high energy master, Ian Anthony Stephens – who also gave us singles by Paul Parker, Hazell Dean, The Flirtations and Lisa. His electro-symphonic arrangements were a great return to the disco edge in the 80s.

I have taken the vocal and instrumental from the 12” single and created a new ReStructure Mix which adds a few more sticks of dynamite to bring the catchy and lyrical chorus and Gina’s sexy energy to a new part. It was a nice high energy track during its release and will remind dancers of the electronic wall-of-sound that high energy created for more dance fantasies!

“Baby Sitter” by Soul Iberca Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Baby Sitter” by Soul Iberca Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Soul Iberca Band is a disco project from 1976 – produced by Daniel Vangarde (Gibson Brothers) and Jean Kluger (Nightschool).  Their 1977 disco single “Baby Sitter” is a funky riff on a sexy baby sitter theme – which plays out with plenty of horns, wind and funky guitars to a disco crescendo. A great novelty piece and also an early disco-funk import which made many DJs and dancers feel the energy of a formula exploding in discotheques.

This Disco Video Mix takes scenes from the 1987 comedy “Adventures In Babysitting” and places Elizabeth Shue in the footsteps of our funky heroine. The video plays out on scenes from the unexpected trip into the city and the situations that make a night memorable for her job and mischievous kids.

The film was directed by Chris Columbus

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

ReStructure Mix Update (1/4/15) “Island Boogie” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gregg Diamond’s Star Cruiser

ReStructure Mix Update (1/4/15) “Island Boogie” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gregg Diamond’s Star Cruiser

Gregg Diamond created a sound for dance floors with a funky-rock edged groove which helped to shape the sound of “boogie” music as it matured as disco. His project Star Cruiser is a 1978 follow up to his 1977 band Bionic Boogie. His earlier work with Andrea True and their classic, “More, More, More” leaves no wonder as how his talent marked an era with sophistication and disco magnitude. “Island Boogie” is from the Star Cruiser album and features lead vocals by Gordon Grody and back up from Diva Gray and Jocelyn Brown.

I have taken the album version to extend and play with a new ReStructure Mix giving way to more of that uplifting feel and fierce production by Diamond. It has always been one of my favorite tracks from Gregg Diamond and covers his lush strings and funky guitar arrangements completely.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the memory of this maestro – Mr. Gregg Diamond (1949-1999)

ReStructure Mix Update (1/3/15) “Scorpio” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dennis Coffey and The Detroit Guitar Band

ReStructure Mix Update (1/3/15) “Scorpio” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dennis Coffey and The Detroit Guitar Band

Dennis Coffey is a guitarist, composer and producer whose work on many funk, soul and disco projects mark an excellence in funky string work and style. Much of his work in the early 70s featured his brand of funk and soul which helped to make the shift into a beat-base dance formula called disco. “Scorpio” is a memorable funk piece which was released in 1971 on album “Evolution”. It is a follow up to the sound of soulful tracks by Isaac Hayes’ “Shaft” and seemed to explode during this period.

I have taken the album version of “Scorpio” and focused on the bongo tracks and lead guitar to fuse a whole new ReStructure Mix experience. It plays out as deadly as the load Coffey placed in this stick of disco dynamite. It is another example of how the ‘evolution’ of funk and soul played an important end in dance music history.

Dedicated to the man himself, Mr. Dennis Coffey – thanks to all of your gifts to ears and feet!