ReStructure Mix Update (5/25/16) “Pieces Of Ice” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Diana Ross

ReStructure Mix Update (5/25/16) “Pieces Of Ice” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Diana Ross

Diana Ross moved into an abstract realm with her 1983 track, “Pieces Of Ice” along with producer Gary Katz. The song resembles a deep early morning number which brings a mysterious feel. It is obvious that a relationship is ending and a note is translated with an artistic mind. It was always a brave move for Ross in my ears and one of my favorite moods. From the album titled “Ross” and one of the most creative and clever video movements. The instrumental pulls out a rendering of the disco synthesizer into the 80s which is a perfect foundation for Diana’s moody and fearful vocal.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to create this ReStructure Mix which ventures off into several journeys using the synthetic ‘pieces’. I used more of the instrumental and several effects to complete Diana’s imaginative tune into a new side of the dance floor. Always a favorite and waited for the time when this remix could be taken into a reality.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/24/16) “Xanadu” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Olivia Newton- John

ReStructure Mix Update (5/24/16) “Xanadu” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Olivia Newton- John

Olivia Newton-John starred in the 1980 musical fantasy film, “Xanadu” along with Gene Kelly and music provided by Jeff Lynne and Electric Light Orchestra. The story of an Olympian muse returning to bring music and romance to an aspiring artist here on earth. The music is well remembered as we hear Olivia singing the title track and a few ballads that reached radio play charts. “Xanadu” is performed by Electric Light Orchestra along with Olivia’s sweet and promising vocal creating a lovely dance track. It is one of the classic among the stars fans and a good taste of 80s.

I have taken the soundtrack version of “Xanadu” to sprinkle a bit of ReStructure Mix feel to the production. The intro rolls in slowly with a few new elements and a new way of keeping the overture in place with some new breakdowns. More of Olivia is featured here with more of the magic which should have been displayed earlier in a remix since the song itself is a great theme for this escape.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/23/16) “Automatic Lover” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dee D. Jackson

ReStructure Mix Update (5/23/16) “Automatic Lover” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dee D. Jackson

Dee D. Jackson released her worldwide disco hit, “Automatic Lover” in 1977 – produced by Patty Unwin and Gary Unwin. The single plays out a futuristic love call in a time where robots have replaced human companionship. One of the unique songs of its kind and produced with the electronic edge of disco to frame it perfectly. Dee D. performed on stage with a 60s sci-fi robot figure moving around her adorning space princess attire which made this number quite the camp piece.

I have taken the 1988 re-release of “Automatic Lover” featuring additional production by Michael Cretu and Frank Peter. This ReStructure Mix works more a space dub approach as I pieced the keyboards and sequencers into new parts for a more extreme feel. Dee D. is given a few more spots to work her vocal riffs along with the abstract groove in this version.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/22/16) “Tic Toc” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carrie Lucas

ReStructure Mix Update (5/22/16) “Tic Toc” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carrie Lucas

Carrie Lucas released her first solo album in 1977 titled “Simply Carrie” that contained the original version of her classic “I Gotta Keep Dancin’” (remixed, re-released and titled “Keep Smilin’” in 1980. Carrie in a voice in disco music which helped to bridge the connection of soul and the new club sound. “Tic Toc” is a track from her second project, “Street Corner Symphony” produced by Dick Griffey and The Whispers. The theme on several tracks has a touch of do-wop and the street sounds of soul. The final production brought out the disco club sound. “Tic Toc” is one of the bouncy numbers which reminds me of Dr. Buzzards Original Savannah Band with Carrie on the mic.

I have taken the album version of “Tic Toc” and gave the track a touch of the ReStructure Mix edge. A bit more of the big band/jazz with drums added and more that do wop sound with The Whispers. This one was requested by Nick and Lindsay as they always find the secret gems to transform into a new listening experience.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/15/16) “It’s Time To Party Now” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ray Parker Jr. and Raydio

ReStructure Mix Update (5/15/16) “It’s Time To Party Now” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ray Parker Jr. and Raydio

Ray Parker Jr. is a producer, musician and songwriter from Detroit, Michigan whose work in the 70s dance arena included Love Unlimited Orchestra. His blend of funk, disco and pop is the sound which helped the early 80s to appreciate a groove and slick arrangements he created. His four albums with Raydio from the late 70s are a funk venture with the groove which helped to move a new era of electronic dance music to life in the early 80s. “It’s Time To Party Now” is from the album “Two Places At The Same Time” and became one of the anthems of disco-funk.

I have taken the album version of “It’s Time To Party Now” is taken into the ReStructure Mix arena and chopped and rearranged with the elements that stood out for me. This was a great segue into a funk set and lower bpm dance tracks. A whole new reason to celebrate that 80s period of sheer purpose to hit the dance floor.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/9/16) “You Know How To Love Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Phyllis Hyman

ReStructure Mix Update (5/9/16) “You Know How To Love Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Phyllis Hyman

Phyllis Hyman is one of the most unforgettable voices of the 70s. Her solo recording debut in 1977 marked the start of many variations of soul, jazz, disco and rhythm and blues which haunt minds and hearts. “You Know How To Love Me” is Phyllis’ 1979 album produced by James Mtume and Reggie Lucas – who just finished launching a new disco career for Stephanie Mills (“What Cha Gonna Do With My Lovin’". The album is one of the most beautiful of the time period and features the title track which is a dance classic.

I have taken the album version of “You Know How To Love Me” and worked a new ReStructure Mix to mark the excitement of the track and stripping down some of the basic rhythms. It is more of a tribute and an alternative way of hearing Phyllis express the undying love and dedication which many of us have felt from the start.