Tuesday, August 31, 2021

SUMMER FUNK - groove under the sun

SUMMER FUNK - groove under the sun

"Took Me So Long” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cerrone - https://youtu.be/jcFAWXzatMw
"Body Heat” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rufus and Chaka Khan - https://youtu.be/PCJZ-CILLo4
"Quick Slick” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Syreeta - https://youtu.be/dsoKFlt9CpE
"Lovin’ You Is A Pleasure” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rick James - https://youtu.be/GVbLp9Z9Doc
"The Second Time Around" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shalamar - https://youtu.be/NvABx4PaOFo


 

REISSUE: "The Second Time Around" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shalamar


Shalamar began as a studio session and quickly became a successful group on Solar Records (Soul Train label) - with members Jody Watley, Howard Hewitt and Jeffrey Daniel.

"The Second Time Around" is from their third album titled "Big Fun" - the song became an instant club anthem following it's release - and even today is one of the most loved "old-school" or classic disco tracks alive!

I have taken the 12" single and ReStructured the song to give it a new energy and meaning. Recently, after seeing Ms. Jody Watley live and sing the complete song solo - I fell in love with it all over again!

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ms. Watley and her marvelous talent and the voice which has only gotten better!
For you Marvin - thank you for all you do - "I Believe In Dreams!"
 

REISSUE: "Lovin’ You Is A Pleasure” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rick James

 


The king of “punk-funk” is the man, Rick James. His brand of funk is the heavy bass, rockin’ guitars and his funky and irresistible delivery. “Lovin’ You Is A Pleasure” is from James’ 1979 album “Fire It Up” – which also features his big disco/funk hit “Love Gun”. The connection that Rick James made between funk and disco is a natural cause with his arrangements. His brand never left the soul arena when his ballads were present also. “Lovin’ You Is A Pleasure” is a nice dance track that incorporates all of James’ funk with light disco elements. It is a rolling and slamming love song that pulls the most out of what this talented artist has.

I have taken the album version of “Lovin’ You Is A Pleasure” and created a ReStructure Mix for a trip back down funk lane. This edit uses more of the bongos and percussion to their limit and extends the track for a more satisfying experience.

REISSUE: "Quick Slick” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Syreeta


Syreeta is a Motown Records artist from the early 70s with one of the most beautiful voices in adult contemporary and soul. Her ballads have always painted wonderful pictures of love and promise and into the early 80s her venture into a pop-funk with producer Hal Davis. “Quick Slick” is a single from her 1981 album “Set My Love In Motion” which reached radio stations and dance floors with Syreeta’s sexy lure. The track describes a male figure that uses his charm and manly attributes to keep her always waiting for more. The song has always been a favorite of mine due to its sexy underground feel and the deep funky keyboards playing out the rhythm. It is a nice reminder of the electronic funk takeover of the early 80s following the big disco production takedown of the late 70s.

I have taken the 12” version of “Quick Slick” and aimed at the street-edit feel in this ReStructure Mix. A play with the keyboards introduces the mode for Syreeta’s playful vocals and works in and out of the original to give a new breath of funk-edits to life. It is another opportunity to feel that funky 80s period where “slick” was in – especially here.
 

REISSUE: "Body Heat” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rufus and Chaka Khan


Rufus is a band from Chicago who also brought vocalist Chaka Khan to the front of the stage along with the sound which gave her the “Queen of Funk” edge. Their music in 1979 took the direction of super-producer Quincy Jones – and their project “Masterjam” reminded dancers that the beat and funk plays on. “Body Heat” is a dance track from the album which stood out for me since it has not only the Quincy Jones touch but it also gives Chaka a disco-funk playground to deliver what she does best. This wonderful track has the wind-up that ignites the disco flame from a nice groove with a sensual aura. Horns and bass roll out like a magic carpet.

I have taken the album version of “Body Heat” and recreated a ReStructure Mix with a phasing to boom into using the rolling bass chorus piece. The intro is a more of a high energy focus while the funk essence remains intact with more separation on verses and added bongos and percussion.
 

REISSUE: "Took Me So Long” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cerrone

 


Cerrone not only brought European disco to the US in the mid-70s and in the early 80s used his genius to construct an exciting fusion of his horns, drums and energy for a new period of disco/dance music. “You Are The One” is from 1980 and crosses the dance bridge to another style for Cerrone along with vocalists Jocelyn Brown, Kristal Davis and Ullanda McCullough. “Took Me So Long” is one of the first singles that I got immediate response from my dance floor and it soon became one of those funk/disco songs that always sound fresh. Jocelyn Brown on lead vocals gives Cerrone a new sound and effect in his creation.

I have taken the album version of “Took Me So Long” and extended the keyboard riffs to a new ReStructure Mix. This mix plays out as a peak our number that may have added another fire to clubs like Paradise Garage on a Saturday night. One of the payments to the great Cerrone who never let us down.

NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "Planet of Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Le Pamplemousse


NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "Planet of Love"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Le Pamplemousse

 

Monday, August 30, 2021

COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/30/21): "Swept Away" by Diana Ross - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera



COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/30/21): "Swept Away" by Diana Ross
- Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons
Featuring scenes from "Swept Away" - STREAM IT TODAY!


 

ReStructure Mix Update (8/30/21) “Just A Gigolo” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Village People


Village People are the essence of the disco era. The fantasy, the escape, the groove. Created and produced by Jacques Morali who brings to the period a whole new feel of artistry and stage appeal. The second album by Village People is perhaps the most memorable for the underground cult following as its title presents “Macho Man” – one of their greatest stamps to their own commodity. Included in this package is also a cover of Louis Prima’s “Just A Gigolo” which is fitting once again for the outline of the group and also another opportunity to discover Victor Willis’ fabulous lead vocal which are soulful and spastically disco! 

I have taken the album version of “Just A Gigolo” and recreated a fantasy ReStructure Mix bringing home Louis Prima’s version to warm up spots of this new version. Also beats pump up the already movin'’ energy to a new place for a new break and fade.

 

SIRENS - the beauty of disco

SIRENS - the beauty of disco

“Goddess Of Love” by Soif de la Vie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/yDTCINn-Bow
“Delicate Jan” by Azoto – Disco Video M ix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/jYpmMIxZsD0
“Love Rush” by Ann Margret – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/0zWfISKywJc
"Benihana” by Marilyn Chambers – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/Yhhi9p-yNoE
“Bad Girls” by Donna Summer – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/j8GKEnTbhuE


 

REISSUE: “Bad Girls” by Donna Summer – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera


Donna Summer’s “album “Bad Girls” is one of disco’s brightest and most mature moments. The double album set was the perfect mixture of various disco moods as well as a spotlight for beautiful ballads which Donna was also talented at writing and creating. A phenomenal piece in recording history.

I have taken the title track “Bad Girls” and blended it with the 1957 Federico Fellini classic, “Nights Of Cabiria” (later rewritten and reshot as “Sweet Charity” in 1966) – the film stars Giuliette Masina, Francois Perier and Amedeo Nazzari. The tale of a waifish prostitute who wanders the streets of Rome is a bit odd for the timing of the song – but fitting.

The film was directed by Federico Fellini

Featuring scenes from “Nights Of Cabiria” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons
 

REISSUE: "Benihana” by Marilyn Chambers – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera


Marilyn Chambers is an actress who started in adult films in the mid-70s. Her turn in the recording industry was a project with Michael Zager titled “Benihana” in 1977. The track emphasized the sensual feel of disco music and a funky groove. Marilyn literally performed her sexy-purr and rouse as if it were an adult film role. Executive Producer Jerry Love

I have taken the 2005 film “Memoirs Of A Geisha” and blended some of the visual elements of the film adaption and created a new outline for both the disco track and the cinema shots.

The film was directed by Rob Marshall

Featuring scenes from “Memoirs Of A Geisha” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

 

REISSUE: “Love Rush” by Ann Margret – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

 


Ann Margret hit the disco scene in 1980 with her disco project produced by the gifted producer and musician, Paul Sabu. This was a moment in disco history which was the biggest gift under the tree. Following Sabu’s productions with Debbie Jacobs (“Don’ You Want My Love”, “High On Your Love”), Sister Power, his solo effort, “We’re Gonna Rock” – his style of dance music had already become contagious.

“Love Rush” is the big single and is a stage for Margret to give the disco performance of her lifetime – complete with the sexy-kitten edge a la-disco. It is one of my favorite camp treats and a big club hit on the dance floor for me.

I have taken Ann Margret’s 1963 musical comedy “Bye Bye Birdie” and created a Disco Video Mix utilizing the dance sequences and Ann’s on screen sex appeal. The film is based on the phenomenon of singer, Elvis Presley in the 50s and his being drafted in the United States Army in 1957.

The film was directed by George Sidney

Featuring scenes from “Bye Bye Birdie” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

REISSUE: “Delicate Jan” by Azoto – Disco Video M ix by Glenn Rivera

 


Azoto (originally called Lucrethia and The Azoto 14,008) is an Italo-disco project from 1978 from arranger, Celso Valli and producer Armando Sciascia (founder of Italian label Vedette Records). Their album “Dance Skinations” was right on target with disco rhythms and the sensuality of disco music during the formation of a stage for many waiting to free personal desires. “Delicate Jan” is a single from the album which shares a few riffs in common with Celso Valli’s big classic group Tantra’s “Hills Of Kat Mandu” which followed this production. The odd vocals and themes are interesting and definitely a disco sensation.

I have taken the song “Delicate Jan” – which appears to be about a sexy woman who drives both the men and women mad with her blatant sexual behavior but at the same time is sweet in nature. It is edited to excerpts from Brigitte Bardot in Roger Vadim’s “And God Created Woman” – where the 18-year old orphan finds it difficult to restrain her sexuality and leads to much drama among three men. It also gives the disco track a beauty that moves quite “delicately” to the rhythm!

The film was directed by Roger Vadim
Featuring scenes from “And God Created Woman” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

REISSUE: “Goddess Of Love” by Soif de la Vie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera


Soif de la Vie is a disco group from Germany featuring Rosay Wortham on lead vocals for the 1985 high energy track, “Goddess Of Love”. The band was heard with two releases following both with different vocalists. “Goddess Of Love” caused quite a stir on high-energy dance floors with its rolling sequencers and roaring vocals and a theme of a temptress working her mystery.

I have taken the 1954 film, “The Barefoot Contessa” starring Ava Gardner and Humphrey Bogart – the story about the life and loves of a fictional Spanish sex symbol, Maria Vargas. With Ava Gardner playing the lead there is no question where my direction was here.

The film was directed by Joseph l. Mankiewicz

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

Saturday, August 28, 2021

DISCO DIAMONDS R 4EVER - Shine On The Dance Floor!

 

DISCO DIAMONDS R 4EVER - Shine On The Dance Floor!

"Radio Action" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Claudja Barry - https://youtu.be/UncjffYCToM
“You're The One" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Boys Town Gang - https://youtu.be/ChGhZHREO4E
"Nobody's Stopping You" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Batah - https://youtu.be/ZaMpU2nqojM
"All American Girls" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sister Sledge - https://youtu.be/BQ7lZMMezUc
“Love Flight 109” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sonia Grier - https://youtu.be/OqybCe7rhNw


REISSUE: “Love Flight 109” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sonia Grier


Sonia Grier is a soul/dance vocalist who released a surprise hit in 1986 titled “Love Flight 109” – produced by Bill Bradford (Shock). This one was a big stomper with its Motown feel and a touch of that pop 50’s edge. An uplifting love song about an imaginary airport where promised love takes off into the skies. One of the big dance floor packers of it day and a big Sonia Grier moment. 

I have taken the 12” extended version, dub and pieces of the original of “Love Flight 109” to depart onto a new trip in this ReStructure Mix. I have used pieces of the dub and instrumental to add some new breaks and effects to this magnificent dance song.
 

REISSUE: "All American Girls" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sister Sledge

 


Sister Sledge brought the disco era to the peak with their big 1979 anthem “We Are Family” – produced by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards. The sound of Chic was a successful blend with the ladies and their lovely harmony and positive attitudes. During in the early 80s when a funky-edge was being applied to the shift in dance music another anthem was again delivered. “All American Girls” is their 1981 hit produced by up and coming hit-master Narada Michael Walden.

I have taken the album version of “All American Girls” and worked a new ReStructure Mix using the rhythm and bass guitars play a few new pieces to give the track a new energy. The groove of Narada’s disco influence are the sheer magic of the song.

REISSUE: "Nobody's Stopping You" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Batah

 


Peter Batah is a Canadian disco artist from the early 80s with two powerful dance floor hits. “Rock Me Now” was released in 1980 and was produced by Claude Allard – the following year was his single “Nobody’s Stopping You” produced by Joe LaGreca and the arrangements identifiably Denis LePage of Lime and many high energy projects of the period. This heart wrenching track in a powerful outcast of a lover who has worn out the threat of leaving – and the time has been reached where no regrets are near.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental and created a ReStructure Mix which extends the synthesizer patterns and ominous percussion tracks to add more definition to the heartbreak and strength to end what is obviously done. More chances to move in new direction on the floor also.

REISSUE: “You're The One" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Boys Town Gang

 


Boys Town Gang is a disco project from the late disco producer, Bill Motley - whose intention was to provide dance floors with beautiful disco music in the early 80s - since many club-goers were not quite done dancing yet.

The first LP "Crusin' The Streets" is a classic with the glorious high energy/disco cover of Diana Ross' "Remember Me" and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" (features Cynthia Manley on vocals). The follow up single is a remake of Little Sister's "You're The One" from 1970 - produced by Sly Stone.

I have taken the 12" mix on Moby Dick Records (San Francisco's own disco label in the early 80s) and ReStructured the track giving it a longer groove and also adding a few new surprises. The funky keyboards and horns are the heart and soul of underground disco music.

REISSUE: "Radio Action" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Claudja Barry


Claudja Barry is a performer who began her career in Munich, Germany and eventually became one of disco music most celebrated artists.l He early hits "Sweet Dynamite", "Dancin' Fever" and the big "Boogie Woogie Dancin' Shoes" are track which expose the disco beat properly.

"Radio Action" is from Claudja's 1981 album "Made In Hong King" - produced by her husband Jurgen Koduletch (Disco Circus, Ronnie Jones, Lipstique). This track is in the uplifting disco genre with a high chorus which makes any dancer feel higher than the mirror ball.

I have taken the 12" version and have given it a ReStructure Mix to pull that classic sequencer layer out and play a bit with the vocals and verses. It is a whole new track now with some of the new beats guiding the promise of success as the lyrics say.
 

Friday, August 27, 2021

COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/27/21): "Leatherman's Theme" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Wright Brothers Flying Machine



C
OMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/27/21): "Leatherman's Theme" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Wright Brothers Flying Machine



 

COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/27/21): "You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bill Fredricks


COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/27/21):
"You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bill Fredricks

 

FULL OF FUNK - Now, you're toast

 

FULL OF FUNK - Now, you're toast

“Let’s Groove” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Earth, Wind and Fire - http://www.shadesofseventies.com/earthwindandfire_letsgroove.html
“Behind The Groove” by Teena Marie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/R6lWOJny5P0
“Nasty Girl” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Vanity 6 - http://www.shadesofseventies.com/vanity6_nastygirl.html
"First Time Around" by Skyy - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/pF67h5gp2yo
“Non-Stop” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Tina Fabrik - https://youtu.be/AS0_gJiGxnE


REISSUE: “Non-Stop” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Tina Fabrik


Tina Fabrik is a disco/funk singer who released 2 singles on the Prism Records label in the early 80’s. “Non-Stop” was produced by Mike Pabon who also gave us Geraldine Hunt and Pure Energy. The single was released in 1982 and was welcomed with open arms on dance floors as it blended a soulful vocal with an electronic arrangement and the energy of what disco music created. Prism Records was one of the dance labels which helped to maintain dance floors that were continuing to move and demand fast moving energy in their nightlife régime. “Non-Stop” brought a funky edge to the rolling energy that it builds up in to and Tina’s vocal gives off a sweetness that plays out well in the mix. One of the most played tracks for me during the mi-evening when dancers were being persuaded to take on the dance floor. 

I have taken the 12” vocal and dub of “Non-Stop” and reworked a new definition of the song in this ReStructure Mix. Using parts of the energetic breaks and builds to introduce the track and then play out the excitement.
 

REISSUE: "First Time Around" by Skyy - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

 


The funk and disco band that made the 70's feel funky all over again. Producer Randy Muller (formerly of Brass Construction) brought to life a whole new dynasty of disco music with a guitar lickin' sound and new energy.

"First Time Around" is from their first LP simply titled "Skyy" from 1979.

My partner Ken gave me the concept of "First Time Around" paired up with the 1983 film, "Risky Business" starring Tom Cruise and Rebecca De Mornay - since it was Tom's "first time around" in the film - the rest was easy!

Featuring scenes from "Risky Business" - RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons 

REISSUE: “Nasty Girl” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Vanity 6


Vanity 6 is Vanity (Denise Katrina Matthews), Brenda Bennett and Susan Moonsey. This trio is one of project brought together by Prince who was moving in many directions at the time with his music and talent. “Nasty Girl” is there single from 1982 and has a rolling funk beat pattern which is a strip down of the groove itself. It is a sleaze number that always raised quite a few feet and eyebrows. Now an 80’s old school/.funk classic this one plays out as always in the deepest of eroticism.

I have taken the album version and instrumental of “Nasty Girl” and rewired the segments into a fast moving ReStructure Mix. The rhythm is pumped with more drum tracks and the vocal are spared with a more censored application.
 

REISSUE: “Behind The Groove” by Teena Marie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera


Teena Marie (Mary Christine Brockert) is better known as Lady T – a R&B artists who brought a new style and edge to soul and disco music in the late 70s. Her music was poetic and a very powerful inspiration to the soul. Her second album in 1980 titled “Lady T” contained the dance single “Behind The Groove” which I have taken into the Disco Video Mix arena thanks to an ideal from Ken Emmons.

The 1980 musical “Xanadu” starring Olivia Newton John, Gene Kelly and Michael Beck is the visual in this project – the big dance segments lend some energy and mystique to the mythical land of Xanadu. The film is a campy piece of 80s dance that always makes the magic of disco and the era come alive again.

The film was directed by Robert Greenwald

Featuring scenes from “Xanadu” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons (based on his concept)

 

REISSUE: “Let’s Groove” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Earth, Wind and Fire


EWF is a soul/funk band discovered by Maurice White in the early seventies and evolved as one of the innovative and a powerful musical presence. Their 1981 album titled “Raise” is one of the 80’s prized releases with the track “Let’s Groove” as its first single. The funk driven dance piece plays out with more of the pump and soul that disco music had moved into in the early 80’s. A big hit for EWF and also one that resonates like a party favor!

I have taken the 12” remix version of “Let’s Groove” and recreated a funk-fest for this ReStructure Mix with more of the beats and horns exclaiming the best of this number. It has a longer duration and some loop effects to bring this type of energy back.
 

Thursday, August 26, 2021

COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/26/21): "Planet of Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Le Pamplemousse

 


COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/26/21): "Planet of Love"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Le Pamplemousse

COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/26/21): "Love In 'C' Minor" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sphinx

COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/26/21): "Love In 'C' Minor"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sphinx


 

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "Just A Gigolo" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Village People



NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "Just A Gigolo"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Village People

 

ReStructure Mix Update (8/23/21) “Put A Little Love In Your Lovin’” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gene Page

 


Gene Page is a musician whose first project from 1972 was the soundtrack to “Blacula” – a black exploitation film. His work during the early 70’s including many talents from the jazz arena. His final solo project from 1980 titled “Love Starts After Dark” is one of the pieces from that disco-funk arena which brings some great tracks to life. “Put A Little Love In Your Lovin’” is an anthem within itself. It has a positive and uplifting message and many powerful moments when it is told by guest vocalist, Alex Brown. The track was one that I would enjoy breaking into a peak set and watching the rhythm and energy take over the floor. It was a nice hidden gem to break out every once in a while.

I have taken the album version of “Put A Little Love In Your Lovin’” and worked into the deeper edge of this ReStructure Mix. Giving way to the powerful vocals from Ms. Brown and the funk infused energy of the song. A new message is given in a whole new way.

COTTON CANDY - a sticky groove

COTTON CANDY - a sticky groove

”Play That Funky Music” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Wild Cherry - https://youtu.be/KDnzQYlA1Sk
“Weekend” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mick Jackson - https://youtu.be/yq_xgYPhXsY
“Saturday Night” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lauren Grey - https://youtu.be/Ki-RTFDXFIs
"Steppin' Out" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ray Dahrouge - https://youtu.be/nONsOjrtdcw
"Pick Up The Pieces" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Average White Band - https://youtu.be/Sh7YxNf9q7Q


 

REISSUE: "Pick Up The Pieces" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Average White Band


Average White Band is one of the big r&b-soul bands from the early 70s. Their two big hits "Pick Up The Pieces" and "Cut The Cake" are the influential dance grooves of their time and helped to create a cross between funk and soul.

The band consisted of these members:Alan Gorrie, Mike Rosen, Hamish Stuart, Owen 'Ormie' McIntyre, Malcolm 'Mollie' Duncan, Roger Ball and Robbie McIntosh.

I have taken their 1974 hit "Pick Up The Pieces" and applied a ReStructure Mix attitude to the album version to lengthen and play with some of the funkiest guitars, horns and groove ever! It is a new version that is only intended to give the original another play in a new way!

 

REISSUE: "Steppin' Out" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ray Dahrouge

 


Ray Anthony Dahrouge is a producer/vocalist with many projects produced under his belt - including Street People and "Mon Amour" by Gary Criss. His solo album "Rendezvous With Destiny" from 1979 was a fantastic recording which gave the disco scene a wonderful soundtrack. The album was co-produced by Bill Terrell and featured John Davis as arranger and conductor.

I have taken his disco hit "Steppin' Out" - the original 12" version - and have given it a ReStructure Mix work over using those classic Davis bongos and working the track with more of the strings and vocals pieces. Some surprise breaks and a fade out.

Dedicated to Mr. Ray Dahrouge and Mr. John Davis

REISSUE: “Saturday Night” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lauren Grey

 


Lauren Grey is an 80’s high energy artist from Chicago who released several dance singles on Dice Records. “Saturday Night” is Lauren’s 1986 release – produced by Tom Weisser. The 80’s dance sound moved in a full electronic production and many independent artists had the ability to hit the stage with more of the underground dance energy. “Saturday Night” is a funkier track from Lauren and gave a new appeal for this high energy chanteuse. 

I have taken the 12” single version of “Saturday Night” and worked some of the components which ring out in this funky mechanism. This ReStructure Mix uses a familiar rhythm track to bring out more of the weekend that is calling us to release all we’ve got.

REISSUE: “Weekend” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mick Jackson


Mick Jackson (Michael George Jackson-Clark) is British artist, songwriter and singer who are best known for his composing “Blame It On The Boogie” – a song he recorded and also recorded by The Jacksons 1978 album “Destiny”. During the high point of disco music’s peak in 1978 marketing and releases were at their most celebrated and was a must for new, old and continuing singers and bands to release a single that was dance formulated for discotheques. “Weekend” is an anthem that shadows closely the funky sound of “Blame It On The Boogie” with a pop-effervescence that is truly the “disco single” of the time.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Weekend” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix with a new outline on breaks and also a fade in. There is some new percussion to assist the groove and a longer exit.
 

REISSUE: ”Play That Funky Music” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Wild Cherry

 


Wild Cherry consisted of Allen Wentz, Bryan Bassett, Dominic Ierace, Mark Avsec, Robert Parissi and Ronald Beitle – an American funk band from Pittsburgh, PA. Their classic funk-disco hit “Play That Funky Music” gave the boys a place which can never be de-funked. The song has maintained it edge throughout its release in 1976. The album was produced by Robert Parissi.

I have taken the album version of the track and created a ReStructure Mix which stretches out the grooves in several spots to secure the funk and also played with some of the musical fixtures which provide a groovy place for today, yesterday and tomorrow to remind us just where the funk belongs – on the disco dance floor!

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/24/21): "Daddy" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - (212)

 


COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/24/21): "Daddy"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - (212)

COCKTAIL LIME - denis & denyse le page


COCKTAIL LIME - denis & denyse le page

“Your Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime - https://youtu.be/T9nUtc0Kj30
“Help Yourself” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lime - https://youtu.be/XnLXenLrU2o
"You're My Magician" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime - https://youtu.be/k4GTu9Qm3Y0
"Together"   Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix   Lime - https://youtu.be/b6rGIgBvIsU
"I'll Be Yours" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime - https://youtu.be/dbV3f9BYUOw


 

REISSUE: "I'll Be Yours" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime

 


Denis and Denyse LePage are Lime and took over dance floors in 1980 with their single "Your Love" - it was a return to a high energy dance arrangement with an innovative electronic twist (pardon the pun).

"I'll Be Yours" is from their LP released in 1981 - another big club hit which has every aspect of Lepage's style and efforts. Ominous bass and a dramatic string arrangement.

I have moved in on this song by piecing together the horns and strings with the percussion again, but in a new order and secession.

This ReStructure is dedicated to one of Lime's most dedicated fans, Dominique. Thank you, Dominique for keeping the essence of Lime fresh and alive! 

REISSUE: "Together" Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix Lime

 


Lime is Denis Le Page and Denyse Le Page and this duo changed the direction of dance music in the early 80’s. Their sound became iconic on dance floors from the inception of their first single in 1980 titled “Your Love”. The heavy percussive framework, igniting keyboard riffs and their unique vocals made the 80's the right place and time. “Together” is from their 1983 project titled “Line 3” and again is the genius of Denis Le Page and his dedication to creating an electric symphony of sound for his love songs and unusual themes. This piece is the groups sound rolled into one offering. It has Denis leading the vocals into a mesmerizing love song which pours out heart with a sweet and simple melody. It is the energy which made the 80’s a great place to dance.

I have taken the album version of “Together” and reworked the track again for this ReStructure Mix. Adding new drum beats and some percussion to help emphasize the love and excitement and also rearranging the choruses to give it a new flair.

REISSUE: "You're My Magician" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime


Magic from the 1981 disco sensation - Denis and Denyse LePage weave a synthesized dance fantasy with this classic LP. Too many hits to count on one hand - try dancing instead. I have taken "You're My Magician" and tidied up a bit - adding a few breaks with some momentum and lots of looping.
 

REISSUE: “Help Yourself” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lime


Lime is Denyse Lepage and Denis Lepage. Taking on a new direction for dance music in the early 80s was their forte and done with lots of energy and excitement. “Lime II” is their 1982 project which featured “Help Yourself” – a fast moving high energy piece that displays the groups sound and again the simple necessity to keep moving to great compositions for a new era from Denis Lepage and Denyse to create a sound that became Lime’s light. 

I have taken the album version of “Help Yourself” and worked a new ReStructure Mix to pay tribute to Lime and their magic. The 80s was theirs and now this new re-capped version is yours.
 

REISSUE: “Your Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime


Dennis LePage brought the magic of his Kat Mandu production of "The Break" to this classic high energy tune. It brought the early 80's alive! Lime enhanced the disco movement to a new height. Taking the elements of percussion, drums along with refined synthesizer he made Lime's "Your Love" the rebirth of classic dance music. The vocals outline the simplicity of the disco sound. ReStructuring "Your Love" was a request from Ronny and made my part of this song an opportunity to fill in an already moving piece of music!
 

Monday, August 23, 2021

COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/23/21): "Just A Gigolo" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Village People

 



COMING SOON! (EPISODE 8/23/21): "Just A Gigolo"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Village People

DANCE ILLUSION - reality and imagination blending

DANCE ILLUSION - reality and imagination blending

"Angel 43" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Marsha Raven - https://youtu.be/KJdHZB5ZGmU
“Automatic Lover” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dee D. Jackson - https://youtu.be/p5Kv6m89SUg
"Nightflight To Venus" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Boney M - https://youtu.be/4VdihFBzQdo
"Moonboots" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Orlando Riva Sound (ORS) - https://youtu.be/4v5yVkkCjME
“The Ultimate Warlord" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Little Casper and The MX'- https://youtu.be/cF0I5YK-0Yc


 

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