ReStructure Mix Update (8/4/16) “Eye Contact” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Casanova

ReStructure Mix Update (8/4/16) “Eye Contact” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Casanova
Casanova is a disco project from 1983 from Sheila E. Washington (Amuka Kelly) and Stephen C. Washington. The electronic force behind this one forms well with the robotic voice that bellows out the eyes watching from the sidelines – catching the energy and excitement of a dance floor in full force. This one was always on my playlist during its release and creates a mechanical syndrum feel with fast moving keyboards, beats and the pulsating energy. A great blend of the 80s dance allure with high energy. The vocals which are featured though a vocoder are the club diva Amuka Kelly which plays out well with this theme as well as ticket to a completely new sound than their project Civil Attack, also on Salsoul Records.

I have taken the 12” versions Part 1 & 2 to create this ReStructure Mix which outlines the electronic sound with more of what makes it work. I have added a new surprise from a classic Moroder/Summer track to help brand a new edge. This one has always been a favorite and I am happy to keep it alive.

“Atomic Dog” by George Clinton – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Atomic Dog” by George Clinton – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

 George Clinton brought funk into the light in the early 70s without a warning. His mastermind created a sound that gave his bands Parliament and Funkadelic road that gave a new path to a new style of rock, funk and soul. Clinton’s 1982 album “Computer Games” is another electronic dazed project which features the big club hit, “Atomic Dog” – an imaginative dance track outlining an obvious video game with dogs doing what they do best – chasing cats for sport. This number has the form where keyboards play against the groove sliding from side to side. A real funk escapade with Clinton’s unique ensemble playing out man’s best friend’s best hour.

I have taken “Atomic Dog” and paired it with an unusual horror film from 1976 titled “Dogs” – which was shot in San Diego at Southwestern College. The film plays with the premise that the college science department using radiation is unleashed to canines and is spreading. Dogs begin packing together in the dark night and crave human flesh. A B-flick which is more of a candidate for the Mystery Science Theater 3000. It stars David McCallum and Linda Gray.

The film was directed by Burt Brinckerhoff

Featuring scenes from “Dogs” – RENT THE DVD!

Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Produced by Ken Emmons

ReStructure Mix Update (8/3/16) “Good To Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – THP

ReStructure Mix Update (8/3/16) “Good To Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – THP

THP is Ian Guenther and Willi Morrison – two producers and song writers who formed Three Hat Productions during the underground disco movement of the mid-70s. Their aim was as any producer who was aware that the nightlife was bringing a new genre of music that was gaining notoriety and sales. THP Orchestra released projects which were a blend of the soulful orchestrations set to a new pulsating beat and drums. THP is one of the classic disco groups formulated for the dance floor – by the dance floor. “Good To Me” is the title cut from the finale album from THP in 1979 and features vocalist Joyce Cobb on lead. This session is one of the most memorable for the band where each track is a disco hit with the growth of this ensemble reaching a new and exciting level.

I have taken the album version of “Good To Me” and created a ReStructure Mix to keep the track in the ears and minds of those of us who were fortunate enough to have felt this one pounding out over a crowded dance floor. Many of the riffs created by the fabulous vocal by Joyce Cobb are rearranged and set up for a new dub-like experience. I have added some phasing and filtering of parts of this gem to give this new version a few more peaks and enhanced energy.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/2/16) “Cupid” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Spinners

ReStructure Mix Update (8/2/16) “Cupid” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Spinners
Spinners joined the disco train in 1979 with the production from Michael Zager and his classic disco arrangement and use of their soulful vocals. This project titled “Love Trippin’” features a cover of the 1961 song “Cupid” written and recorded by Sam Cooke. The song has a touch of a Latin rhythm along with the r&b outline. Spinners take the track and sweeten it even more with their flowing harmonies and along with Zager’s disco groove this one hits the same mark as their previous disco hit, “Working My Way Back To You” from 1979, also produced by Michael Zager and Jerry Love.

I have taken the album version of “Cupid” and striped away the Medley piece “I’ve Loved You For A Long Time” to give this track the spotlight for a new ReStructure Mix. A few looping parts of the disco rhythms and some new drums to enhance the 50s Latin touch of this little gem. It plays out with more of “Cupid” using drop segments and effects to communicate true love.