Saturday, September 29, 2018

ReStructure Mix Update (9/27/18) “Hold Me Touch Me” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carolyne Bernier


ReStructure Mix Update (9/27/18) “Hold Me Touch Me” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carolyne Bernier

Carolyne Bernier is a Canadian disco artist who made the mid-70s dance floors a beautiful place to be. Her first single “Hold Me, Touch Me” is one of the loveliest dance tracks from 1977 and brings the early signs of disco music’s new direction for the time. Produced by Tony Green who also gave us France Joli, U.N., Freddie James, Geraldine Hunt and Goldie Alexander. This production is the essence of the touch disco period. It is one of Carolyn’s memorable tracks and gives a European flare an easy play for those who admire the lush sound of disco music.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Hold Me, Touch Me” and reworked the elements of both versions into this new ReStructure Mix. There is a longer intro and fade out to allow the dreamy and sexy sound another opportunity to make its way back into the heart.

Friday, September 28, 2018

ReStructure Mix Update (9/26/18) “Dr. Sex” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Pleasure and The Beast


ReStructure Mix Update (9/26/18) “Dr. Sex” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Pleasure and The Beast Pleasure and The Beat is one of the bands from the early 80s which played a role in shifting the synth-pop/alternative dance sound into high energy. Their 1983 single “Dr. Sex” is one of the alluring pieces of electronic music. An alternative edge with backing from many radio stations dedicated to the 80s nu-wave dance market. Produced by Jimmie O’ Neill and played out in a mystical arena with a female vocal which embodies the Siouxsie and The Banshees mood. A heavy layer of make vocals give it a sleaze feel with a touch of punk. One of the memorable pieces of the 80s and the open creative field for producers and artists. I have taken the 12” version of “Dr. Sex” and layered those pumping bass key notes into a new ReStructure Mix. Focusing on the spell that the lead vocals seem to work and making every turn a new one.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/24/18) “Here Comes The Night” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Beach Boys


ReStructure Mix Update (9/24/18) “Here Comes The Night” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys are one of the iconic sounds in music history. Their music brought on the reflection of a time and place. As disco mirrored balls and dance floors were brought to life by disco, The Beach Boys sound gave an outline of the Southern California surfer scene on the shore. Their harmonies were the immediate lure of their music along with the smooth rockin sound of their guitars. In 1979, as most artists and bands did The Beach Boys release a disco single titled “Here Comes The Night”. It was brought to life with the magic of disco producer Bob Esty who took the song and gave it the feel of what disco music and dance floors were feeling. I can remember the excitement of this single when it was released and the cornerstone of disco music it represented. A great bouncy number with the vocals which make The Beach Boys just how they are remembered.

I have taken Bob Esty’s 12” marvel using both the vocal and instrumental to recreate the “night” once again in this ReStructure Mix. It is laid out with more of Bob’s electronic outline and focuses on the wonderful past of this band’s music.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/19/18) “I Need You” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Claudia Hart


ReStructure Mix Update (9/19/18) “I Need You” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Claudia Hart

Claudia Hart is the vocalist on “I Need You” – a track produced by Mix Up (Biagio Farina, G. Gioia and J.P. De Blasio). This release from the Canadian dance label Uniwave Records from 1979 is a hint of the changing face of disco music as it moved into a full electronic production. The music here sounds like early Italo-disco and our lead vocalist Claudia Hart performs this love song in the same vein. A sexy and yearning number for a lover who needs to know how much desire is involved. Heavy on the percussion and bass synthesizers for one of those 80s disco moments. One of the sweetest 12” singles with the Canadian dance movement intact.

I have taken the 12” disco and rock versions to recreate a new ReStructure Mix which smooths out the arrangement with more of the pumping bass and keyboards between our delicate vocal. I have also attempted to take the BPM of this song under control and a new bongo pattern is overlaid throughout this new version.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/18/18) “Gimme Love” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Harry Chalkitis


ReStructure Mix Update (9/18/18) “Gimme Love” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Harry Chalkitis

Harry Chalkitis is best known for his work with the disco group Queen Samantha. His production along with Charles Ibgui made the single “Take A Chance” a disco classic along with Chalkitis’ arranging and conducting. The sound he creates is that European pop disco flavor and also with tracks like “Take A Chance” an eerie underground feel. Harry Chalkitis released his first solo album in 1975 titled “Marita” and in 1981 a follow up project titled “So Long” – “Gimme Love” is from this album and is that sound which Chalkitis weaves very well. A bit more on the pop edge yet this style is still as satisfying as the hardcore dance numbers of the time.

I have taken the album version of “Gimme Love” and transformed the short radio version into an extended ReStructure Mix. A few new elements have been added to insure the beats make ever second worth it and some breaks to mesmerize this great dance number.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/17/18) “Follow The Brightest Star” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Voyage


ReStructure Mix Update (9/17/18) “Follow The Brightest Star” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Voyage

Voyage is a band from France whose dance music shaped disco music for the finale of anthems. Their big hits “From East To West” and “Souvenirs” are perhaps the most uplifting and memorable dance floor classics of the late seventies. The finale album from Voyage in 1982 titled “One Step Higher” contained a wonderful closing to their odyssey of dance music celebrating our world – “Follow The Brightest Star”. This one plays out like a 70s Euro-disco track with a beautiful resonance. It defines their sound in its entirety with the beautiful lyrics, sweet chorus and uplifting rhythms. One of the most wonderful sounds for the end of the disco era.

I have taken the 12” of “Follow The Brightest Star” and reworked another journey to a great place in this ReStructure Mix. The intro and chorus parts are dissected to give more of what this song brings alive. More of the song is better and a fade out with the chorus is the curtain call you may have been waiting for.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/15/18) “Whatcha’ Gonna Do” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Stephanie Wells


ReStructure Mix Update (9/15/18) “Whatcha’ Gonna Do” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Stephanie Wells

Stephanie Wells is a Canadian disco artists from producers Gino D’ Orazio and Tony Bentivegna (Nightlife Unlimited) and released one album titled “Fools In Love”. A big stamp on the Canadian disco import label Tojo Records in 1983 where much of the electronic dance tracks were creating a stir again on dance floors. This was the dawning of high energy music which was given its name since the electronic sound produced a nonstop rolling edge. “Whatcha’ Gonna Do” is that disco vein where the beautiful vocal is the top of level of the track and the swirling sounds created with keyboards and sequencers are the orchestral foundation. It is the return to the underground feel of disco music where the rhythm was the true essence.

I have taken the 12” version of “Whatcha’ Gonna Do” and worked a new ReStructure Mix not only extending the beauty of its lyrical verses but adding a new intro and breaks. The keyboard synth is extended the way I hear it in my head and the chorus still shines. A great track that helped to save the dance floors again in the early 80s with a return to the disco passion that had not yet ended.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/14/18) “Sex Dance” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lisa


ReStructure Mix Update (9/14/18) “Sex Dance” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lisa

Lisa R. Fredenthal-Lee is a disco singer who brought the early 80s alive once again with her single “Jump Shout” – produced by Barry Blum and John Hedges. The song was one of the 12” releases that helped make San Francisco’s disco based label Moby Dick Records a standard. Lisa released her debut album titled “Lisa” which featured more electronic dance tracks displaying more of this artists colors in an 80s flair. “Sex Dance” is the third release on the second 12” from the project. This one is aimed at a somewhat suggestive idea that moving to dance music brings on the need for intimacy and release. A bit more could only enhance the feeling that we have all been experiencing for years. It is one of the sleepers from the project yet it still presents that sound which Lisa brought alive in the early 80s.

I have taken the album version and 12” of “Sex Dance” and recreated a new lesson for this ReStructure Mix. It holds more breaks and surprises where my aim was to go deeper into the moves as it promises more.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/12/18) “Street Talk” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gino Soccio


ReStructure Mix Update (9/12/18) “Street Talk” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gino Soccio

Gino Soccio made the end of the disco era a need for an ambient and abstract sound which was only beginning on his first project, “Outline”. The early 80s were the movement towards an electronic dance sound which Soccio embraced in his own creative mind. “Street Talk” is from his 1981 album titled “Closer” and follows a synthesized metal sound with a touch of the nu-wave lightly sprinkled with distorted sounds joining a funky vocal from Erma Shaw. The track is a notable one since it gives his percolating and ambient feel a full on effect. One of the hidden gems from his many genius productions.

I have taken the album version of “Street Talk” and revamped the outline with a new arrangement and accenting the ticking percussion which keeps the rap here moving. The dreaminess is embraced with a few drop out breaks and some phasing. One of my favorite styles of Soccio in a new package.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/11/18) “Hot Love In Spain/Porompompero” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Crystal Grass


ReStructure Mix Update (9/11/18) “Hot Love In Spain/Porompompero” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Crystal Grass

Crystal Grass is a French disco group created by Lee Hallyday. Their 1974 self-titled album contains their classic “Crystal World” which displays a mysterious side to disco music as it emerged from soul. Their second album, “Dance Up A Storm” features singer Leroy Gomez (Santa Esmeralda) on saxophones. “The Love Train” from 1978 displays the theme which European disco used music from the past and themes segued into a medley. Most of DJs the clubs allowed for long play. Kristi Barton is the guest vocalist on this project and takes us around the world with standards and a few pop disco covers with a Cerrone-like chorus alongside. Much like the Voyage concept from Roger Tokarz. Our stop in Spain features “Hot Love In Spain/Porompompero” which features some great Spanish guitar work and authentic vocal serenading our diva as she passes through. A nice full orchestrated disco number that is by all means sophisticated as most emerging French disco was.

I have taken the album version of “Hot Love In Spain/Porompompero and recreated a new ReStructure Mix. I have added an intro to bring in the transition of this mood and also lots of claps and new beats to pound out that “hot love”.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/10/18) “The Fruit Song” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Jeannie Reynolds


ReStructure Mix Update (9/10/18) “The Fruit Song” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Jeannie Reynolds

Jeannie Reynolds is a soul singer from the mid-70s who joined the Casablanca Records roster in 1976 with her first album titled, “Cherries, Bananas and Other Fine Things”. “The Fruit Song” was produced by Don Davis and being one of those sexy and alluring records which gave the feel of disco music the mood lighting it needed. This one plays out with bongos and congas beating a sexy pattern for Jeannie to express her love for passion fruit and her lover. A nice soul and sexy disco number with soaring strings and some moans and sounds that may bring to mind romance to the hilt.

I have taken the album version of “The Fruit Song” and laid out the basic percussion track to recreate this ReStructure Mix. It plays out much like the original with only a couple of new breaks and some nice fruity percussion pieces to accent this sexy song.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/9/18) “Beat Street Strut” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Juicy


ReStructure Mix Update (9/9/18) “Beat Street Strut” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Juicy

Juicy are a brother and sister duo featuring Katreese and Jerry Barnes. Their 1984 track “Beat Street Strut” from the soundtrack of the film “Beat Street” is one of producer, Eumir Deodato’s electro funk masterpieces. The rolling bass and jittery keyboards create a contagious rhythm that moves the mind and feet. Juicy lends their vocals in that disco chorus feel where a celebration is obvious and shouting is done with excitement. One of the big moments for me where the rhythm became the set during its release and those playlists following.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to recreate this bumpin’ street ReStructure Mix. More effects are added and several pieces from the original are sampled and looped to give more challenge to your energy. A special appearance from Sharon Redd finished this remix with more for your moves.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/8/18) “Fantasy” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Hotline


ReStructure Mix Update (9/8/18) “Fantasy” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Hotline

Hotline is a project from Bobby Orlando who took the underground feel of disco music back to the basics of rhythm with his heavy percussion and beats emulated in a street fashion. A new sound which would soon become the high energy music of the 80s. “Fantasy” from 1982 is a spoof of Orlando’s own production “Passion” from his studio group The Flirts from the same year. The instrumental plays out identically with a few changes in EQ and lyrics. This one is for the dancers who discovered the underground feel of Orlando’s early sound irresistible.

I have taken the Italian Import 12” version of “Fantasy” and created a new ReStructure Mix with a new chopping job to reconstruct this version into a mystical experience. A sample from Clint Eastwood’s “Play Misty For Me” helps to give it that erotic sound.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/7/18) “Brown Sugar” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Man Parrish


ReStructure Mix Update (9/7/18) “Brown Sugar” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Man Parrish Man Parrish is one of the New York artists who took an early part of the 80s to rejuvenate electronic dance music. His first album introduced a fierce blend of street-beats, electro-vibes and an early high energy sound to dance floors. “Hip Hop Be Bop” is now a classic dance piece which helped to bring the street sound to many dance floors that many have been reluctant to feel the power behind this new concept. Man also produced many artists and continues to make dance floors his art form for club goers and dancers. “Brown Sugar” is a single released in 1987 and layers the sounds of percussion and Man Parrish’s style of keyboards which often bring back the innovation he created. This cover of The Rolling Stones classic is a dance intelligent move for a work which follows anything but standard. I have taken the 12” version of “Brown Sugar” using both vocal and instrumental to transform this cover into a semi-mashup with The Rolling Stones. It keeps the magic beats that Parrish has created and honors them in a new way.

Thursday, September 6, 2018

ReStructure Mix Update (9/6/18) “Darkness and Light” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Amanda Lear


ReStructure Mix Update (9/6/18) “Darkness and Light” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Amanda Lear
Amanda Lear has taken disco music literally throughout her career. Her material has always been of the abstract and of the strange and dark edge of life. Throughout the material Amanda has always remained true to her talent to perform and her persona. “Darkness and Light” is a single released in 1983 – produced by Peter Ludemann. This 12” single also contained “Love Your Body” which was a big hit on many dance floors as it followed the heavy bass synth which helped to culminate the upcoming high energy scene. The news on “Darkness and Light” looks at the world situation as a bit bleak yet there is hope in her heart and soul. More of an early morning feel and worked for me during many sets at that time.

I have taken the 12” version of “Darkness and Light” and repaved a ReStructure Mix which breaks the dark and light into two parts. It blends many parts and loops to recreate the transition and also re-works those heavy bass beats and synths.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/5/18) “Cool” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Time


ReStructure Mix Update (9/5/18) “Cool” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Time

The Time is the Jimmy “Jam” Harris, Terry Lewis and Morris Day – who set the 80s on fire with their brand of electro-funk during the early 80s. “Cool” is from their first album which displays the brand and style of what Prince was weaving during his reign as a new artist. This one plays out with the exaggerated appea
l of the persona which Morris Day reflected in play. The keyboards are the 80s style of funk and punk rolled into one yet the vocals are as funky as possible. This one stands out for me since it created quite a stir every Friday and Saturday night on my dance floor.

I have taken the 12” version of “Cool” and recreated a new attitude ReStructure Mix with some new elements to beef up the power of its funky edge. Adding a few drum and hand claps with some looping there is a new extended dance exhibition here.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/3/18) “Tonight” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ronnie Jones


ReStructure Mix Update (9/3/18) “Tonight” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ronnie Jones

Ronnie Jones has always been the Motown voice of disco music. His smooth and sweet delivery has always brought to mind the sound of a generation of the 70s which brought soul music to the disco curve. “Tonight” is a single from Ronnie’s 1980 project titled “Games” – produced by Jurgen Korduletsch. The track is an exciting dive into the night where the spotlights are aimed at a good time. This track was a winner for my club at the time as the build from early evening to high energy music was taking place. A very nice and alluring chorus is the center stage of this song and it lingers on with Ronnie’s appealing performance takes over.

I have taken the 12” version of “Tonight” and played out a bit more of the fantasy in this ReStructure Mix. The wonderful Jurgen Korduletsch electronic sound that gives off the disco power of the 70s still works like magic here. A few more break inserts and played out choruses give it a new edge.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/2/18) “Oh, Don’t Lose Your Heart Tonight” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Silent Circle


ReStructure Mix Update (9/2/18) “Oh, Don’t Lose Your Heart Tonight” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Silent Circle

Silent Circle is a German synth-pop band that was formed in 1985. Their sound gently took the edge of bands like Modern Talking with the gentle love themes and rolling bass synthesizers. Silent Circle fits into the 80s dance scene perfectly as its vocal play out in a somewhat alternative fashion. “Oh, Don’t Lose Your Heart Tonight” is a song which caught my ear with the beautiful chords and verse which lead to the familiar call in the chorus. It is one of their most memorable and one which provided a nice transition from early evening to peak hour music for me.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Oh, Don’t Lose Your Heart Tonight” and created a new ReStructure Mix using more of the synthesizer and percussion work as the means. The extended feel gives way to more of the instrumental yet the vocal hook closes it quietly.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/1/18) “If My Friends Could See Me” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Linda Clifford


ReStructure Mix Update (9/1/18) “If My Friends Could See Me” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Linda Clifford

Linda Clifford is one diva who was on top of the world in 1978. Her big disco hit, “If My Friends Could See Me Now” is one of the songs that made nightlife in the late 70s worth living for. This cover of the Cy Coleman and Dorothy Fields song from the Broadway musical, “Sweet Charity” was given a second life with this flawless disco cover and production. Linda set a precedence for disco music with this recording with her sophisticated soulful interpretation which reflects the late 70s female persona. Above and beyond the pop music sound this disco performance still represents a stylish and slick edge. Produced by Gil Askey and features The Jones Girls on backup.

I have taken the album version of “If My Friends Can See Me Now” and restaged a 3 act ReStructure Mix taking the energy from rhythm guitar to the full on orchestrated sections with those sweet disco strings. Along with Linda’s fabulous vocal this re-edit makes was for a new arrangement and fade out to the monstrous sound of this great disco number.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/31/18) “Pistol In My Pocket” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lana Pellay


ReStructure Mix Update (8/31/18) “Pistol In My Pocket” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lana Pellay Lana Pellay is a high energy artist in the vein of the successful band Dead Or Alive with the help of P.W.L. Productions – with Phil Harding engineering. This camp number is a take of Mae West’s so-called classic line from “She Done Him Wrong”. “Pistol In My Pocket” is fast and furiously means and roars out as the beats and percussion remind our feet that high energy is its own style. The lyrics are fun and a bit mild although Lana’s performance is fun and a bit tame for what I would imagine as a transsexual performer. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Pistol In My Pocket” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with some new bullets and loops to make the fierce number come alive again. It uses some bits of Ms. West at the intro and a touch of what made it all happen at the end.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/27/18) “It Takes Me Higher” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ganymed


ReStructure Mix Update (8/27/18) “It Takes Me Higher” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ganymed Ganymed is an Austrian disco band who took the futuristic feel of the 70s a step further and displayed their music as a group of space aliens and a hippie-esque lead singer. Produced by Wolf Rene Reitz and executed in a style which soon became known as ‘cosmic disco’? This underground sound uses keyboards and synthesizers the way Giorgio Moroder aimed his project “From Here To Eternity” by taking the imagination process along with the compositions and theme. “It Takes Me Higher” plays out as one of the creatures from the band and another galaxy admit to the disco addiction. It is somewhat moody but every bit as disco music is. The deep beats resonate with a pounding that echoes the feel of another time. Keyboards help to place this one in that realm of the 70s galactic feel – something that CGI could not produce. I have taken the 12” version of “It Takes Me Higher” and pulled out the syn-drums and cymbal effects to a new level with this ReStructure Mix. It takes a new trip for those who find that 9 minutes passes quickly when you are in hyperspace. One of my favorites of the late 70s and indeed one of the most unique bands in disco music.

Monday, September 3, 2018

ReStructure Mix Update (8/26/18) “Feelin’ Lucky Lately” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – High Fashion


ReStructure Mix Update (8/26/18) “Feelin’ Lucky Lately” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – High Fashion High Fashion is an electronic-funk band produced by Jacques Fred Petrus whose past projects included solidifying the energy of disco music with Peter Jacques Band and the beginnings of a New York funk sound with Change. Along with arranger and conductor Mauro Malavasi and musician Davide Romani the music of High Fashion once again brought the sound of New York alive as with Petrus’ past B.B. and Q Band and The Ritchie Family in the early 80s. “Feelin’ Lucky Lately” is once again a positive and uplifting force of dance music to embrace the dance floor. Along with vocals including Diva Gray, Gordon Grody, Philip Balou, Fonzi Thornton and Melissa Morgan this masterpiece is complete. I have taken the 12” version of “Feelin’ Lucky Lately” and reworked a ReStructure Mix using segments of those sharp keyboards and funky beats. I have added a few new pieces to enhance the new mix and also a fade out to make the feeling last longer. This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Erik De Hodge – thanks for the kind words and the request.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/25/18) “Love Is Finally Coming My Way” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – True Example


ReStructure Mix Update (8/25/18) “Love Is Finally Coming My Way” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – True Example True Example is one of Salsoul Records hidden gems with their disco archives. This single is the disco era outlined by Salsoul and influenced by the Philly groove and perfected by dance floors. “Love Is Finally Coming My Way” is a testimonial song about love finding itself in the heart of a needing soul. The vocals are reminiscent of classics by Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes and feature the beautiful tones of The Sweethearts of Sigma. The production by T.G. Conway lays out the Salsoul disco era in one piece. Always a favorite of mine when that “gold mind” label came into heart. I have taken the Walter Gibbons 12” version of “Love Is Finally Coming My Way” and rearranged the song to give it an ambient build and onto the gospel and soul feel of the climax. For those who like to fade along with the music there is also an ambient fade out. The song has been given a ReStructure Mix where pieces of the sounds that make it memorable are used in edits and loops to create lasting power.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/24/18) “Love System” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Twins


ReStructure Mix Update (8/24/18) “Love System” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Twins
The Twins are Ronny Schreinzer and Sven Dohrow – a German synth-pop band who took dance floors into a new phase of energy with their big hits “The Desert Place”, “Face To Face – Heart To Heart” and “Not Of The Loving Kind”. The early 80s was a whole new layout for dance music as many genres of rhythmic music were fused to recreate the disco aura. The Twins were a dance sound which mimicked the nu-wave feel on vocals and sharp edged synthesizers as pop bands like Duran Duran used sparingly. Soon to become high-energy in the mid-80s with the help of bands like The Twins and their influence. “Love System” is from their 1983 album “A Wild Romance” which is a continuum of their powerful synth touch and the vocal riffs that make their sound linger. It is perhaps one of the most innovative in this genre of the time where beats were often accented with percussion and unique auto-effects. I have taken the 12” version of “Love System” and worked a new ReStructure Mix which takes the rolling drums from the bridge and places them in parts of this new mix to enhance the energy. It is a new celebration of what The Twins call “Love System” and we call a crowded dance floor united in rhythm.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/23/18) “Relax” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Frankie Goes To Hollywood


ReStructure Mix Update (8/23/18) “Relax” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Frankie Goes To Hollywood F.G.T.H. is one of the most unforgettable sounds and bands of the 80s. Produced by Trevor Horn (Chrome, Buggles, ABC, Malcolm McLaren, Yes, Propaganda) who took the bank onto his new label, ZZT Records along with Paul Morley. “Relax” comes from their 1984 album “Welcome To The Pleasuredome” – it is perhaps one of the kindest fusions of rock and dance synth-pop of the time. A big move as bands like Dead or Alive were participating in. The single “Relax” is and has been highly controversial due to the lyric and suggestive theme – yet the music still powers over all and art is the finale decision here. A huge dance floor hit and the start for this great 80s band that also sparked the careers of Holly Johnson and Paul Rutherford. I have taken the 12” long, radio and instrumental to recreate a new ReStructure Mix which takes off where the fantasy leads the feet and mind. A lot more of the bump and grind bass which reminds many of the big high energy hit “High Energy” by Evelyn Thomas – yet each presents itself in a unique way.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/21/18) “Take A Chance” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mr. Flagio


ReStructure Mix Update (8/21/18) “Take A Chance” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mr. Flagio Mr. Flagio is an Italo-disco project from “Fla”vio Vidulich and “Gio”rgio Bacco. This track from 1983 is one of the early Italian recordings which marked the success of this genre of dance music around the globe. The extensive use of the sequencer and keyboards are not a hint of disco music – but a statement. The productions of the early 80s became streamlining and more acceptable in the electronic form – since synth-pop had become the new arena for dance music. “Take A Chance” is a heavy piece in which a simple line: “Let’s break away, come take a chance with me…” is an obvious pick up line. Inserted between the vocoder chorus and dramatic backing vocals which are somewhat operatic is the electronic cowbell which many may recognize as a staple of Klein and MBO. Mr. Flagio released only two single and their focus is definitely the deep Italian disco edge along with the more pop-street edge in a light dosage. I have taken the 12” of “Take A Chance” – using both the vocal and instrumental to combine both for a new ReStructure Mix experience. This one plays out with more with the synthesizer loops and chorus build which made it one of the classics of Italo-disco that it is today.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/18/18) “Freeway Of Love” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Aretha Franklin


ReStructure Mix Update (8/18/18) “Freeway Of Love” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Aretha Franklin Aretha Franklin is the talent of soul music history. Her voice has released so many deep emotions in a soulful and somewhat operatic delivery. The strength of this voice has marked many moments in history and even today ignites a feeling of freedom and cause. Her recent passing has given me a moment to reflect not only on the power of music – but also the strength of the human spirit. Aretha has given that spirit many times around and I believe that her legacy will be one of the last of true soul. “Freeway Of Love” is a dance track from 1985 produced by Narada Michael Walden. This pop-funk number speaks of the work in a loving relationship and in many ways expresses the freedom once again of love and emotions. Spoken with Aretha’s own instrument – her voice. This ReStructure Mix is a salute to this talent and to keep reminding me that the loss of this woman is more than anyone or I could ever conceive. I have taken the US 12” single remixed by Michael Brauer and gave a ReStructure Mix tune-up for this salute. It is weaved a bit more like a dance floor piece yet the message is always clear thanks to Aretha.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/16/18) “Devil’s Run” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Peter Jacques Band


ReStructure Mix Update (8/16/18) “Devil’s Run” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Peter Jacques Band Peter Jacques Band is a disco group produced by Jacques Fred Petrus and compositions composed and arranged by Mauro Malavasi – both responsible for Macho, Change and Midnight Gang. This blend of fast and frantic rhythms with plenty of swirling electronic keyboards and disco horns and strings is one of the innovative albums of its time. Soon to become the sound of the late 70s disco era this play is more of what the dance floor was feeling during the peak. “Devil’s Gun” is a single from the “Fire Night Dance” and is another example of the power of this disco concept and sound. It is the now the hardcore classic disco/high energy outline for enthusiasts and the dancers who never forgot the sweat that incurred with songs like this. I have taken the album version of “Devil’s Run” and used much of the pieces of energy from the production to create another burst of disco power in this ReStructure Mix. It is laid out in a new way and looping provides a new angle for the basslines and powerful vocals lead by Leroy Burgess.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/15/18) “I Wanna Believe” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gina and The Flexix


ReStructure Mix Update (8/15/18) “I Wanna Believe” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gina and The Flexix Gina and The Flexix is an Italo-disco project from 1985 – produced by Giancarlo Bigazzi and Giampiero Bigazzi. The project was featured on a compilation/EP album titled “Fuzz Dance” and along with three additional electronic and innovative pieces gave a new angle to Italian disco music. It was the street beat of the early 80s which influenced electronic beats and formulation of a new kick beat and groove. This production, like the EP takes the electronic sound of Italo-disco and blends it with street beats and the 80s nu-wave/rock/alternative edge in a dance friendly manner. “I Wanna Believe” plays out as a synth-pop ala Pretenders style of dance music. The female vocal announces in a defiant manner a need for a romance to materialize. It is one of the tracks that I would love to play either warming up the floor or casting it at 4 am into another world. A great innovative approach for the mid-80s and a mark in Italo-disco that is quite memorable. I have taken the EP version along with pieces the 12” “D.J. Service Mix” and “AM/FM Service Mix” to recreate a new outline for this ReStructure Mix. A 90s classic vocal riff from Cher is added to rekindle that feeling of “believing”.

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