Friday, June 30, 2017

From Italy, With Love - Danza e Boogie

From Italy, With Love - Danza e Boogie

“Run To Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Tracy Spencer - https://youtu.be/4fI1cMumC2w
“Don’t Stop” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ross - https://youtu.be/uSSNhY8knYM
"I Love My Radio" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Taffy - https://youtu.be/Ioco9z-8VKM
"Color My Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fun Fun - https://youtu.be/rTg29qhxrRQ
“I Need Love” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Capricorn - https://youtu.be/eHci0NXFtb8

Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Going Back To My Roots - Love ... look back for the memories

 Going Back To My Roots - Love ... look back for the memories

"Back In Love Again" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer - https://youtu.be/kZnR6nTVpyo
"(Every Time I Turn Around) Back In Love Again" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - L.T.D. - https://youtu.be/I043WCAqplg
"Back In My Arms Again" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cynthia Manley - https://youtu.be/UXO-reYon4M
“Working My Way Back To You" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Spinners - https://youtu.be/cdyZME25DLA
"Back In The Day" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jones Girls - https://youtu.be/wb0w0sEr62U

ReStructure Mix Update (6/28/17) "Heartquake" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Love Affair



ReStructure Mix Update (6/28/17) "Heartquake" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Love Affair

Love Affair is an electronic dance project from producers Gilbert Di Nino and Leo Carrier released in 1979. Comprised of a formula familiar to disco classics as “Love Attack” by Ferrara and “Magnifique” by Charisma which includes heavy synthesizer waves of bass along with percussion and simple, yet curious vocal riffs. “Heartquake” has the chorus ensemble that displays a sensual and bold presence that works wonderfully over the keyboard breaks which exude an explosive edge. One of the early signs of high energy music in the works following the big disco production age.
I have taken the extended 12” version of “Heartquake” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix with a new arrangement which showcases the elements which work most in this swirling dance track. Drums are given the center stage again where they are injected in parts of this dance number. Homage to the high energy electronic period of dance music history.

Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Disco Carnival ... a celebration of life

Disco Carnival ... a celebration of life

“In The Forest" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Baby 'O - https://youtu.be/hhBSwH49N9w
"Brazuca" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Simbora Orchestra - https://youtu.be/jA3xiTBeCN8
"Cafe"' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - D.D. Sound - https://youtu.be/aEf6u958DzM
“Calypso Disco" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Beckett - https://youtu.be/UN7QXuxC6xE
"The Natives Are Restless" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ray Martinez and Friends - https://youtu.be/0kGsJxDmCQw

ReStructure Mix Update (6/24/17) "Don’t Stop" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ish




Ish Ledesma is one of the talents of the 70s in all areas of music creation. Some of his well-known projects include the 70s funk band Foxy and 80s groups Blue Moderne, Company B, Laura Miller, Tiger Moon, Promise Circle and Apollonia’s “Since I Fell For You”. His solo effort in 1979 included the album “Ish” which included the fierce single, “Don’t Stop”. The single made a mark in clubs with the sensual and beat enhanced arrangement along with his breathy and appealing vocal. The original arrangement is a slope of rhythm that takes control of the senses. It is one of the lasting pieces from the T.K. Records 12” collection that is a must.

I have taken the original 12” version of “Don’t Stop” and reworked a ReStructure Mix which gives way to the sounds that make this track dynamite. Adding a few pieces of percussion and using the big break in several spots to “stop” and go along this sexy ride. It is a tribute to the talent of Mr. Ledesma who I am sure we have not heard the last of quite yet.

Saturday, June 17, 2017

PRELUDE 2 Love - Volume One


PRELUDE 2 Love - Volume One

“Dancing At The Disco” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – L.A.X. - https://youtu.be/UnhYwoDe6DA
"Come To Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - France Joli - https://youtu.be/8wicQpd-QQM
“Keep On” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – D-Train - https://youtu.be/wc0vh8iW7j8
“In The Bush" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Musique - https://youtu.be/pZBJ7_gkKVc
"Beat The Street" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Redd - https://youtu.be/w9iVkLOF9jw
"Walking On Music" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Jacques Band - https://youtu.be/qcifibGuvlw


ReStructure Mix Update (6/16/17) "Wake Up" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Stop


ReStructure Mix Update (6/16/17) "Wake Up" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Stop

Stop is Danny Rodriguez, Martin Rodriguez and Bijan. Their 1985 high energy classic “Wake Up” is one of the big instrumental tracks of its time. An electronic Latin dance fantasy with the energy of an explosive night at any club ready to celebrate. Released on Damabi International Records and a return to the independent dance track movement taking place as high energy music began to take off. This one has always been a part of the Latin dance clubs as a mixture of the salsa and drum percussion of a carnival.

I have taken the 12” long version and dub to pay tribute to high energy of the mid-80s and the sound that gave dance floors another resurgence period. The original is broken into many parts and pieces of “El Jarbe Tapatio” are injected for a fusion of sound and culture.

Thursday, June 15, 2017

I, KEYBOARD...beats meet technology

I, KEYBOARD...beats meet technology

"E=Mc2"- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio - https://youtu.be/DktPMXfbZ1g
“Situation” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Yaz - https://youtu.be/rShY-dC_RVE
“Beyond” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Herb Alpert - https://youtu.be/COIGF4ZyGXg
“I Got A Line On You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Patrick Cowley - https://youtu.be/i-5y9-2H6VE "Remember" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio - https://youtu.be/KkUaWkH0ESw

Ladies, Go Lightly...hit us with your groove


Ladies, Go Lightly...hit us with your groove

“Knock On Wood" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amii Stewart - https://youtu.be/eTVHYvjbUss
"Fly Me On The Wings On Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Celi Bee - https://youtu.be/2BiC5QSBLSA
"Giving Up, Giving In" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Three Degrees - https://youtu.be/oMI-5zKJgw4
“Playboy" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - France Joli - https://youtu.be/p-CTdDAjpEg
"Physical" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Olivia Newton-John - https://youtu.be/ksMEfqEfyf8

Tuesday, June 13, 2017

RATED MMB - MATURE MIRROR BALLS

RATED MMB - MATURE MIRROR BALLS

"Male Stripper" by Man 2 Man - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/-ENSdd_t6wA
“Dancer Dance” by Pussyfoot – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/kwR9QDXB1rc
“Sleazy” by Village People – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/e9rC79CpFJY
"Benihana” by Marilyn Chambers – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/Yhhi9p-yNoE
“Big Spender” by The Ritchie Family – Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/Vew4gRrrrgI

ReStructure Mix Update (6/13/17) "I’m Totally Yours" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Hi-Gloss


ReStructure Mix Update (6/13/17) "I’m Totally Yours" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Hi-Gloss

Hi-Gloss is a studio project from disco producer Giuliano Salerni – who also brought us the classic disco project Ultimate, Bonnie Boyer’s disco classic “Got To Give Into Love”, a Euro-disco group titled Strange Affair from 1980 and also produced a few tracks for France Joli on her “Now!” project. Salerni brings a unique sound to disco music which always reminded me of a symphony out in space with a groove. Much like the effect which Boris Midney brought with U.S.A. European Connection. A groove or disco beat is set out in an empty space that is ethereal always comes to mind. Hi-Gloss features some great vocalists in this session including Phillip Ballou, Luther Vandross, Maeretha Stewart and Ullanda McCullough. A project that was definitely influenced by the first project from Jacques Fred Petrus’ Change. “I’m Totally Yours” is the sweet disco ballad which tells a love story of dedication and satisfaction. One of the great Prelude Records landmarks in time.

I have taken the album version of “I’m Totally Yours” and recreated a magic ReStructure Mix to encompass that dreamy feeling that Salerni creates in his arrangements and productions. A bit more of the separation of percussion and vocals work throughout this mix. It is one of my favorite funk sweeteners of all time and now can be felt in a whole new way.

Saturday, June 10, 2017

DISCO WISHING WELL...Where a thought becomes a dance

DISCO WISHING WELL...Where a thought becomes a dance

“Now I Need You" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer - https://youtu.be/YYDp233sUPs
"Show Me Your Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - D.D. Sound - https://youtu.be/4D9qXojmk8w
"In Love With Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine - https://youtu.be/AFX6NFSs9oM
"Sooner Or Later" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nina Schiller - https://youtu.be/B-H5lVEK-lQ
"The Love Train" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Crystal Glass featuring Kristi B. - https://youtu.be/1jVysfiHGps

ReStructure Mix Update (6/10/17) "All Night Long" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – B.B. and Band


ReStructure Mix Update (6/10/17) "All Night Long" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – B.B. and Band

B.B. and Band is an Italo-disco project from Mario Boncaldo and Tony Carrasco who also gave us Klein and M.B.O. during the same time frame. Electronic music was converging onto a new sound during the early 80s following the demise of the full studio production of disco music. The keyboards and sequencers were the main force in Italo-disco along with the cheerful chorus ensembles keeping the light and uplifting feel of dance music. “All Night Long” is from the 1982 album “Wee Thee People” which helped to formulate a touch of funk into the Italo-disco formula. The slick production incorporating the Latin castanet breaks and magnificent piano elements this piece plays out elegantly. A big favorite of mine always and another number which made the shift into Italo-disco very welcome.

I have taken the Italian 12” vocal and instrumental version along with some new beat and percussion elements to create new party for “All Night Long”. This ReStructure Mix stays true to the original version which drops in and out of heavy chorus breaks and light piano serenades. It is one of those early evening songs that make the night promising and infectious.

Friday, June 9, 2017

Later that night...AT THE CLUB


Later that night...AT THE CLUB

“Lady Of The Night” by Ray Martinez and Friends – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/mRgNASykp40
“(Everybody’s) Dancing All Over The World” by Busta Jones - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/8vl8oOjewhk
"Dancing In My Feet" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Taylor - https://youtu.be/Oogwz7jnYc0
“Livin’ It Up” by Bell & James – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/dW6RVQS4wlI
"Dance (Disco Heat)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester - https://youtu.be/pfvVv86YEqU

ReStructure Mix Update (6/9/17) "Bring Your Love Down (Didn’t I)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Yazoo


ReStructure Mix Update (6/9/17) "Bring Your Love Down (Didn’t I)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Yazoo
Yazoo is Vince Clarke and Alison Moyet – a duo who brought change to both 80s dance music and electronic recordings. The powerhouse duo were both experts in their areas where Clarke supplied the keyboards and mood and Moyet performed some of the most incredible emotions over synthetic sounds up to date. “Bring Your Love Down” is from their first album “Upstairs At Eric’s” from 1982. A song which rings over and over in the mind as well as the start of their combined genius. A simple troubled love song that creates another start for a band which now remains a classic for its own museum.

I have taken the album version of “Bring Your Love Down (Didn’t I)” and recreated a ReStructure Mix for the 80s Edition – yielding at not to the fantastic keyboard riffs and the amazing sound of Moyet. This is not only an extension of the song but also an opportunity to place my open mind to a creative and fun moment.

Wednesday, June 7, 2017

ReStructure Mix Update (6/7/17) "Obsession" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Animotion


ReStructure Mix Update (6/7/17) "Obsession" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Animotion

Animotion is an 80s synth-pop band who made playlists all over with their 1984 hit “Obsession” – a twist of nu-wave and the electronic 80s intro. Astrid Plane and Bill Wadhams are the lead vocalists who reveal a secret desire with some strange analogies which seem a bit tame today. The song soared up the charts on alternative radio stations as one a cult band then soon became one of the pop sensations of the 80s. Later releasing hits “Let Him Go” and “I Engineer”. Original production is from John Ryan and displays the band feel of the 80s and the 12” dance release features a touch of club from Mark Kamins.

I have taken the US 12” vocal and dub version to piece together this ReStructure Mix which attempts to take the track a bit deeper into a dub-like fantasy. The nu-wave-ish feel is presented with more effects place on the original synthesizers, sequencers and confessions. This one was always a great way to start the evening and now it can be a better way to end the morning.

LONE DANCE - When the heart dances alone


LONE DANCE - When the heart dances alone

"Heartbreak In Disguise" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pattie Brooks - https://youtu.be/ggXVQr3Yl6s
"Keep Smilin'" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carrie Lucas - https://youtu.be/Fv9JchOBUoM
"Queen Of Fools" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jessica Williams - https://youtu.be/OWWoun9gmdo
“Good To Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – THP - https://youtu.be/OKGjthM-nds
“Savin’ Myself” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eria Fachin - https://youtu.be/uOAxyITJmu0


Tuesday, June 6, 2017

ReStructure Mix Update (6/6/17) "Livin’ In The Life" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Isley Brothers


ReStructure Mix Update (6/6/17) "Livin’ In The Life" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Isley Brothers

The Isley Brothers are an R&B/soul group whose recording career began in 1959 throughout 2015. Their music throughout the years has always maintained the sound of period and their own style. Many of their biggest achievements are during the funk movement of the early and mid-70s where a touch of the hardcore mixed with their sweet ballads made their stage unique. “Livin’ In The Life” is a powerful funk piece from their 1977 album “Go For Your Guns”. This one has a life of its own. A number questioning social circumstances and giving one the benefit of the doubt is the outline for this slam dunk funk track. This stands at the opening of disco music and its connection between soul and funk music.

I have taken the album version of “Livin’ In The Life” along with the brief instrumental part “Go For Your Guns” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix to pay homage to this great ensemble. This one extends the “mean” groove into a funk fest of d claps that seem to surface below the groove itself. A favorite of mine always and a trip into the concept of ReStructure Mix was gladly given.

http://www.glennrivera.com/multiply/isleybrothers_livininthelife_restructuremix.jpg

A DARKER BEAT ... an eerie sound with rhythm

A DARKER BEAT ... an eerie sound with rhythm

“Eye On You” by Hippies With Haircuts – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/kScVcRRBvBA
“Magnifique” by Magnifique – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/TZQmVN8u_UY
“’H’ Friend” by Black Devil – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/e0Dc2Yb6QBA
“Slice Me Nice” by Fancy – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/ltk0f55qp0o
“Love Attack” by Ferrara - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/Ehh9WDAeVMI

Saturday, June 3, 2017

ReStructure Mix Update (6/3/17) "In My Fantasy (I Want You, I Need You)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester


ReStructure Mix Update (6/3/17) "In My Fantasy (I Want You, I Need You)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester

Sylvester is one of disco’s most celebrated artists and talents where during the momentum of this genre he continued to deliver a style which built upon itself. His fourth album “Living Proof” is a landmark concert recording of Sylvester and his incredible back system Two Tons ‘O Fun – Martha Wash and Izora Rhodes in all their glory. Two additional tracks included in this two-vinyl set are “Can’t Stop Dancing” and “"In My Fantasy (I Want You, I Need You)". Both are the disco flash that was the full delivery that was needed at the time. "In My Fantasy (I Want You, I Need You)" is the return to a disco concept of a simple hook and breaks that create a dance pattern of hooks and fantastic vocal performance. A great sensual disco feel that marks the period.

I have taken the album version of "In My Fantasy (I Want You, I Need You)" and recreated ReStructure Mix pay homage to the disco genre with a few familiar riffs. This time around it is laid out with more looping and original components to complete a playful picture. I have used most of the great pieces outlined in the 12” mix from John Hedges and Marty Blechman – the men who helped to make fantasies on the dance floor come true.

The Fast and The Fabulous! Always win!

Photo
The Fast and The Fabulous! Always win!
“Three Time Lover” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Bardeux - https://youtu.be/bJ_Ij0htiMs
"Walking On Music" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Jacques Band - https://youtu.be/qcifibGuvlw
“Your Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime - https://youtu.be/T9nUtc0Kj30
"Undercover Lover" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Debbie Jacobs - https://youtu.be/xknWr0gj9gM
“Sunset People” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Jessica Williams - https://youtu.be/SogwiWORkPU

Thursday, June 1, 2017

ReStructure Mix Update (6/1/17) “The House Is Rockin’” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Bobby Caldwell




Bobby Caldwell is a jazz musician and producer/songwriter who are best known for his 1978 single. “What You Won’t Do For Love”. Earlier in his singing career he recorded a single titled “The House Is Rockin’” which was also released as Sno-Ball featuring Bobby Caldwell. The track captures that Miami hustle sound that was made classic by artists like George McCrae and K.C. and The Sunshine Band. It was an underground club favorite and falls into the early disco sound arena. A nice mellow vocal from Bobby along with the plush guitar and keyboard arrangement are the iconic Henry Stone Miami sound.

I have taken the 7” version of “The House Is Rockin’” and created a ReStructure Mix adding more Latin percussion and extending the party. The original 3:10 release is extended for another Hustle party and gift to those who admire Caldwell’s classic sound and catalogue.


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