Tuesday, December 31, 2019

NIGHTCLUBBING - A Walk Into The Lights



NIGHTCLUBBING - A Walk Into The Lights

“Send Me An Angel’” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Real Life - https://youtu.be/2Zv3_ekEh9k
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eurythmics - https://youtu.be/hx4SxJ8TUO0
"Pull Up To The Bumper" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grace Jones - https://youtu.be/8TzQHoZPvEI
"Just Be Yourself” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Nightlife Unlimited - https://youtu.be/pcqSS3MKcT0
“The Calling” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ken Heaven - https://youtu.be/_gedA5-AS_0

REISSUE: “The Calling” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ken Heaven





REISSUE: “The Calling” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ken Heaven
Ken Heaven is a 80s artist whom followed closely on the falsetto delivery of Bronski Beat’s Jimmy Sommerville of a couple of years earlier. The success of the band Bronski Beat brought many sound-alike vocalists like Ken Heaven and Italo-disco’s Kinky Go who brought their high energy sound with a tribute to the energy and vocal of Sommerville. Ken had a great success in 1986 with his single “The Calling” and although his voice sounding familiar was still refreshing to an audience of dancers desiring that rolling electronic high energy edge. This track is a perfect love track where “the calling” is romance and a promise of content. It is a bit haunting yet the energy builds over and over with the chorus. A big part of my peak hour program of the time. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to the ReStructure Mix cutting board to pay tribute to the high energy 80s sound. The intro and arrangement are given some new breaks and kick to give the energy more of a challenge. A few winding electric breaks are added to give the track more of an underground message.

REISSUE: "Just Be Yourself” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Nightlife Unlimited





REISSUE: "Just Be Yourself” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Nightlife Unlimited Nightlife Unlimited is a disco project from Tony Bentivegna, Johnny D’Orazio, Louis Toteda and Peter Sciascia – produced originally by Peter Di Milo and George Cucuzzella (“Disco Choo Choo”). The start of the 80s and the end of the big disco studio productions brought a new raw edge along with a touch of rock/new wave feel as “Just Be Yourself” from 1980 replays. It was the lead for many independent productions from producers, artists and performers to keep the mood of disco music alive. “Just Be Yourself” is a hard hitting track which sounds like a pop-rock Top 10 hit at times and then yanks us right back to the disco underground feel with the pulsating bass synths and cowbells. A great dance that is considered one of the dance classics from Canada. I have taken the album of “Just Be Yourself” and played out a new ReStructure Mix to work on more of the rumbling bass and rocked out vocal. A new synth play is added and some new breaks.

REISSUE: "Pull Up To The Bumper" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grace Jones





REISSUE: "Pull Up To The Bumper" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grace Jones Grace Jones was iconic from the moment she stepped into the lights that revealed a darker image and persona. Her music, style, and presence have always intrigued audiences and even hardcore followers. Her music shifted during the early 80s appropriately with the new wave of electronic funk and rock. It was quite simple for Grace to complete the transformation effectively since she had performing this from the start. “Pull Up To The Bumper” is from the 1981 album “Nightclubbing” – produced by Alex Sadkin and Chris Blackwell. It is one of the most thought provoking songs as Grace takes the wheel and keys. The production is a sound from period which created an easy stage for funk to make it return in a new form. I have taken the 12” Remix by Steven Stanley and created a ReStructure Mix to lower this parking lot garage a few levels deeper. More samples and looping are added to make this infectious song stick even closer to your ears and feet.

REISSUE: “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eurythmics





REISSUE: “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eurythmics Eurythmics are Annie Lennox and Dace A. Stewart – a force of 80s synth-pop dance music which crafted a new form of style and execution fitting the scene with perfection. Their 1983 hit “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This” is a haunting and pounding dance piece that explores the way of life with simplicity verses over indulgence. A futuristic like robotic movement which even today with it few verses begins a thought process which can last. I have taken the original 12” version to recreate a lengthy ReStructure Mix adding more loops and edit rearranging to give this classic 80s number a new face lift. Complete with the energy and sound which made it a hit with a touch more of what I hear in my head during a peak hour and a mesmerized dance floor!

REISSUE: “Send Me An Angel’” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Real Life





REISSUE: “Send Me An Angel’” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Real Life Real Life is Allan Johnson, Danny Simcic, David Sterry, George Pappas, Richard Zatorski and Steve Williams – an Australian 80’s synth-pop group. Their big 1983 hit “Send Me An Angel” is one of the icons of the dance scene of the period. The heavy synthesizers working alongside the bands play is a sound which reminded me of Eurhythmics style. All in all in this single it plays out on its own. The track was one which rings out as a haunting request for a change of life and heart for this hero. A big dance floor hit and a nice intro to Real Life who continued recording on to 2004. I have taken the 1988 12” remix of “Send Me An Angel” and recreated a new play for this magnificent dance piece. It is a bit more rolling with the synthesizers playing a major part and some of the “Cloud Nine Mix” – which is the house dub – plays into this new ReStructure Mix. A nice homage to the 80s dance scene and the band.

Monday, December 30, 2019

NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "Never" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Center Stage



NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "Never" 
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Center Stage

ReStructure Mix Update (12/30/19) “To The Boys In The Band” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – La Flavour







La Flavour is Craig DeBock, Gino Milchak, Pete Nervo, Rick Dotin, Rusty Bretz and Steve Nervo. Their big dance floor hit “Mandalay” from 1979 was a huge welcome their hard hitting energy of Latin percussion and Spanish guitar strumming. A nice combination of energy and excitement. Their second release from the album titled “To The Boys In The Band” is another number which brought many to the floor once again with its alluring Latin style percussion.

I have taken the 12” version of “To The Boys In The Band” and created a new ReStructure Mix adding a few new elements to give it some new energy. More of that percussion to set the night on fire and a new sequencer to bring the beats alive.

DISCO IS IN THE AIR - A NEW YEAR OF LOVE IS COMING!



DISCO IS IN THE AIR - A NEW YEAR OF LOVE IS COMING!

“Love Is In The Air” by John Paul Young – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/z1jDAzWwRZQ
"Tender Is The Night" by THP Orchestra - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/xyi2vszrpGk
“Fall In Love” by Ryan Paris – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/yY97baxx4Xc
“Love Oasis” by Patris – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/mDxZ5lNoZJ4
"Evergreen" by Hazell Dean - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/hI37Nyf8XZc

REISSUE: "Evergreen" by Hazell Dean - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: "Evergreen" by Hazell Dean - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Hazell Dean become the lovely voice of high energy disco music in the early 80's - her dance cover of Barbara Streisand's hit "Evergreen" is one of the most wonderful transitions from ballad to dance floor. It was produced by Willi Morrison and Ian Guenther (THP, Sticky Fingers, Southern Exposure) with excellent results. I have taken scenes from the 1976 film, "A Star Is Born" from where this number is from and synchronizes several of the tender love scenes as well as a recording session - to give Barbara a taste of Hazell's worthy rendition. The film was directed by Franck Pierce and stars Barbara Streisand and Kris Kristofferson Featuring scenes form "A Star Is Born" - RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Loulou of The Netherlands - thank you again, Loulou

REISSUE: “Love Oasis” by Patris – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: “Love Oasis” by Patris – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Patris is an electronic dance project from 1985 produced by Craig Peyton and Nelson Cruz. The single “Love Oasis” is the blend of hard hitting bass beats with a light touch of the mid-80s Miami freestyle touch. The soft and haunting vocal is the attraction for me as it blends well with the theme of a soul awaiting love in an empty desert. It is one of the big tracks for me of the time and is still a favorite. I have taken “Love Oasis” into a Disco Video Mix using scenes from the 1936 drama “The Garden of Allah” starring Marlene Dietrich and Charles Boyer. The desert romance is a locale for the disco track and is a photoplay for Marlene’s beauty. Much of the segments identify the love and ultimate sadness of parting of our lovers. It is an opportunity to feel both pieces of media in a whole new way. The film was directed by Richard Boleslawski Featuring scenes from “The Garden of Allah” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons

REISSUE: “Fall In Love” by Ryan Paris – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: “Fall In Love” by Ryan Paris – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Ryan Paris (Fabio Roscioli) is an Italian singer who released several tracks that marked the Italian disco era of the early 80s. His first single “Dolce Vita” is a classic to date and outlines the electronic arrangement with the lighter flair taking over dance floors during its release. “Fall In Love” is Ryan’s follow-up from 1984 and was produced by John Bini and arranged by Pierluigi Giombini. It is a beautiful dance track that has always been one of my favorite. I have worked this Disco Video Mix taking scenes from the 1954 romantic comedy “Sabrina” starring Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn and William Holden. My premise is to a fix a stare to the wonderful beauty of Ms. Hepburn and leaves a hypnotic trance as the disco track does. The trio in this love triangle plays during the disco refrain and keep the black and white classic alive also. The film was directed by Billy Wilder Featuring scenes from “Sabrina” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons

REISSUE: "Tender Is The Night" by THP Orchestra - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: "Tender Is The Night" by THP Orchestra - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera The 1949 Samuel Goldwyn Classic, "Our Very Own" with Ann Blyth and Farley Granger is blended with disco classic, "Tender Is The Night" by THP Orchestra to create a romantic interlude in this video mix. The track from the 1978 LP by the same name is given life by producers Ian Guenther & Willi Morrison -- a beautiful dance ballad with The Duncan Sisters (Phyllis and Helen Duncan) weaving magic with their alluring vocals. I have always held both this song and the film close to my heart. This being the perfect time to bring the two together -- and dedicate to my partner, Ken. Featuring scenes from "Our Very Own" -- available on VHS only -- RENT IT NOW! Video Edit by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons

REISSUE: “Love Is In The Air” by John Paul Young – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: “Love Is In The Air” by John Paul Young – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera John Paul Young marked the end of the 70s with an anthem that continues to bring smiles and warmth to hearts and dance floors everywhere. The track was released in 1977 and became one of the contemporary disco songs of the time. I have taken the 1955 film “Summertime” starring Katherine Hepburn and Rossano Brazzi and blended the romance in Venice, Italy with the magic of this disco classic. The film was directed by David Lean Featuring scenes from “Summertime” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons

Tuesday, December 24, 2019

DISCO REELS - Motion Matinee



DISCO REELS - Motion Matinee

"Wishbone" - Tantra - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/EEcTpDLySZ8
“Haunted Disco” by Chromium – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/Itw0-atjRsw
“Pistolero” by Bombers – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/INDH_nArIL0
"Pleasure Island” by Paul Jabara – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/d1qBhAYKMh8
“Supernature” by Cerrone – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/XURlT5RpmJA

REISSUE: “Supernature” by Cerrone – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: “Supernature” by Cerrone – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Cerrone’s 1977 tour de force, “Supernature” is still considered one of the finest electronic disco compositions. It is. With his mastermind and talented musicians, Cerrone created an album, which marked the coming of disco in its perfect form. This track has been reworked and re-recorded, but never with the same impact as the original. I have taken the song and paired it with the 1977-film “Island Of Dr. Moreau” starring Burt Lancaster, Michael York, Nigel, Richard Basehart and Barbara Carrera. The theme is obviously in the same vein as being the demise of mans idea for controlling nature. This video mix touches closely at a time when technology allows us to see how nature exists along side of us – and not for us. Dedicated to Rick in Lincoln City, Oregon Featuring scenes from the 1977 film “Island Of Dr. Moreau” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons

REISSUE: "Pleasure Island” by Paul Jabara – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: "Pleasure Island” by Paul Jabara – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Paul Jabara worked with disco music to create a lighter and more colorful edge to give the dance floor a good feeling to move with. His compositions include the disco classic “Last Dance” from 1978. His album “Keeping Time” was the work of Paul and producer Bob Esty – where they took several pieces work and applied dance music’s classic sound with the 70s new excitement. “Pleasure Island” is a track written by both Bob and Paul and one of the most incredible songs and movements containing Paul’s playful touch and Bob’s masterful production and arrangement. It is an incredible movement. I have taken “Pleasure Island” along with the 1933 film, “King Kong” starring Fay Wray and Bruce Cabot – pairing the adventure of the mysterious island and the ominous beast, King Kong in this tribute to the disco track. It is the outline that disco fantasy is all about. The film was directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Shoedsack Featuring scenes from “King Kong” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons

REISSUE: “Pistolero” by Bombers – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: “Pistolero” by Bombers – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Bombers are one of the disco gems of the late 70s – a Canadian disco group produced by George Lagios and Pat Deserio who also helped to create Kebekelektrik in 1977. The sound of Bombers was a heavy disco drum with a heavy keyboards and percussion aimed at the new arrangement and mix of dance music in 1978. “Pistolero” is a space-age theme with some of the delicious bass from Buster Jones and the heavy drum fills which Pat Deserio practiced. It has always been one of my favorite fantasy disco tracks and kept my dance floor packed for months during its release. I have taken the 1982 science fiction film “Blade Runner” starring Harrison Ford and Rutger Hauer to compliment the futuristic and bold feel of the disco track. The film is a story of a Dystopian Los Angeles in the year 2019 where robots run amok in a setting that is a bit film noire on the detective end yet heavy on the science fiction matter. The film was directed by Ridley Scott Featuring scenes from “Blade Runner” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons

REISSUE: “Haunted Disco” by Chromium – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: “Haunted Disco” by Chromium – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Chromium is a disco project from producers Trevor Horn (ABC, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, Malcolm McLaren, Grace Jones) and Geoff Downes (Asia, Thompson Twins) and released their album “Star To Star” in 1979. The big club “Fly On UFO” was a hit and remains the finale destination for disco arrangements of the time. I have taken the song “Haunted Disco” from the album and paired it with the 2012 comedy/fantasy film “Dark Shadows” and stars Johnny Depp as the resurrected vampire, Barnabas Collins. This odd return to the 70s play with a few elements which are fitting for the ghoulish-disco mood. The film was directed by Tim Burton Featuring scenes from “Dark Shadows” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons

REISSUE: "Wishbone" - Tantra - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: "Wishbone" - Tantra - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera A recapture of Tantra's classic dance cut, "Wishbone" using excepts from "The Golden Voyage of Sinbad" - and a little dance by Shiva Featuring scenes from "The Golden Voyage Of Sinbad" - RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons

Monday, December 23, 2019

NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "To The Boys In The Band" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - La Flavour



NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "To The Boys In The Band"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - La Flavour

ReStructure Mix Update (12/23/19) “Let Me Know (I Have A Right)” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gloria Gaynor







Gloria Gaynor built her stance in disco music on experience. Her first big dance floor hit from 1974 “Never Can Say Goodbye” is a classic which lays out the disco experience from the vocal and also technical end thanks to Tom Moulton’s endless mix. Her big follow up hit from 1978 was the anthem “I Will Survive” which is now a standard among others today. Her 1979 album produced by Dino Fekaris was a tough venture to the follow up on her previous hit but Gloria attains that challenge with another demand on taking on heartache and building a positive end. “Let Me Know (I Have A Right) is another anthem in a more subtle manner although Gloria’s performance stands true to the moment.

I have taken the album version of “Let Me Know (I Have A Right)” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix with a new energy adding some drum and percussion. There is a bit more of the instrumental weaved in and out to outline the production of the original.

ANOTHER DISCO Night - "Don't Wait Up, Baby."



ANOTHER DISCO Night - "Don't Wait Up, Baby."

“Do It At The Disco” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gary’s Gang - https://youtu.be/Pse6chwyzYE
"Dim All The Lights" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer - https://youtu.be/TC_S8bP1ANw
“Dancer" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio - https://youtu.be/57KypcJv7QE
“Hold Me Touch Me” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carolyne Bernier - https://youtu.be/M6l6MeWdZzQ
"Haven't Stopped Dancing Yet" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gonzales - https://youtu.be/YoC55Lk9uls

REISSUE: "Haven't Stopped Dancing Yet" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gonzales





REISSUE: "Haven't Stopped Dancing Yet" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gonzales Their have been many requests to ReStructure this classic disco hit! Released in 1977 this cut by Gonzales became an instant dance floor favorite. Produced and written by disco artist, Gloria Jones ("Bring On The Love") and Richard Jones. The production is high energy with a bit of Latin conga flavor. I have taken most of the percussion and reworked it with a few changes with the arrangement and direction of the song - lots of phasing to bring it into current day!

REISSUE: “Hold Me Touch Me” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carolyne Bernier





REISSUE: “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.

REISSUE: “Dancer" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio





REISSUE: “Dancer" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio Throughout history in every genre of music a project comes along that changes the face of that music forever. Gino Soccio's "Outline" LP made disco forever grateful. I must admit the first time I ever heard "Dancer" was on a disco radio station and I thought it was a progressive new Andrea True Connection song - only because of Heather Gauthier's fantastic vocals that I believed were somewhat similar. After hearing Gino Soccio following the song I immediately went in search of. And was I ever grateful for that moment on. This LP has "The Visitors", "Dance To Dance" to it's credit also. Quite a production and with Soccio's genius and the outstanding marketing this production still holds it own, as if it were new. Timeless! My ReStructure takes "Dancer" in a new forum with my darker side of our bodies ability to set our minds free.

REISSUE: "Dim All The Lights" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer





REISSUE: "Dim All The Lights" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer The Queen Of Disco and her hit, "Dim All The Lights" from 1979 gets a whole new uplift along with a new mood - more underground and outward. The song comes from her "Bad Girls" double LP and is one of the finest productions by Moroder and a fascinating vocal by Summer. It remains a favorite among devout fans and is easy to understand when you hear the slick production and of course, Donna's intro note held into the beats. Dedicated to Donna Summer fans everywhere!

REISSUE: “Do It At The Disco” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gary’s Gang





REISSUE: “Do It At The Disco” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gary’s Gang Gary’s Gang is Gary Turnier, Eric Matthew (later producing Sharon Redd and Fast Radio), Jay Leon, Bob Forman, Rino Minetti, Al Lauricella and Bill Catalano. Their huge disco hit “Keep on Dancing” from 1978 made the band a permanent sound on dance floors everywhere. “Do It At The Disco” is another dynamite single from the group and features a Latin-Salsa feel with their strong percussion layout and “party” attitude. It was one of the fast moving energy tracks which helped to bring disco music to life not only in the fast growing club circuit but also radio stations that began to experiment with the successful disco format. A great piece to remember the band for and also one of the classics which give the period it deserved memory. I have taken the album version of “Do It At The Disco” a new overhaul for this ReStructure Mix and have utilized the Salsa elements more to the extreme. The Latin percussion is extended to bring more power to the message which holds out till the fade.

Sunday, December 22, 2019

COMING SOON! (EPISODE 12/22/19): "You Could Have Been With Me Last Night" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Primitive Fire



COMING SOON! (EPISODE 12/22/19): "You Could Have Been With Me Last Night"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Primitive Fire


NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "Let Me Know (I Have A Right)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gloria Gaynor



NEXT ReSTRUCTURE MIX: "Let Me Know (I Have A Right)"
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gloria Gaynor

ReStructure Mix Update (12/22/19) “Windsurfing” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lazer





ReStructure Mix Update (12/22/19) “Windsurfing” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lazer

Lazer is an Italian-disco project from producer/arranger Celso Valli – who also brought us Passengers, Tantra, Azoto, Lama,  Nuggets and Elite. “Windsurfing” is a track that follows closely as his Azoto project with the whispery vocals and sweeping electronic arrangements on a high energy curve. It was one of the early high energy tracks of 1982 and helped to keep the energy of disco music alive during the time period. The theme is one that follows the whimsical frolic of Italo-disco in a fun and simple layout.

I have taken the 12” version of “Windsurfing” and recreated a ReStructure Mix to pay homage to this wonderful arranger and producer. The original elements including the percussion and bass lines are extended into new breaks and eventually a new breakdown.

DISCO SHINE - the electronic edge of dance music



DISCO SHINE - the electronic edge of dance music

"Bang A Gong" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Witch Queen - https://youtu.be/3vfoPxDddwc
"Love Fever" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine - https://youtu.be/9QhqbfAUuxk
“American Man” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ladies Choice - https://youtu.be/dhGKdocyGDo
"Heatstroke" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Man Parrish - https://youtu.be/tcrhQZe5CDA
“Crank It Up (Funk Town)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Brown - https://youtu.be/sHAdR0SHW8A 

REISSUE: “Crank It Up (Funk Town)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Brown





REISSUE: “Crank It Up (Funk Town)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Brown Peter Brown started a disco extravaganza with his LP “Fantasy Love Affair” in 1977 – it brought disco classics “Do You Want To Get Funky With Me” and “Dance With Me” into a whole new arena. Progressive arrangements and keyboards brought Brown’s vocal to life. “Crank It Up (Funk Town)” was from his follow up LP “Stargazer” in 1979 – this track stomped its way onto dance floors and created quite a stir. It is stir one of the most rockin’ disco tracks around. I have ReStructured it and added a few new breaks along with a few new robotic keyboard riffs to create a “Funk Town” feel.

REISSUE: "Heatstroke" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Man Parrish





REISSUE: "Heatstroke" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Man Parrish

Man Parrish hit the clubs in 1982 with his LP, "Man Parrish" which included his hit, "Hip Hop Be Bop" and "Heatstroke". During this time a resurgence of a new techno-charge dance music was being formulated and perfected. "Heatstroke" being a big lead-in to this period. Produced by Man Parrish and Raul A. Rodriguez

The track is reminiscent of a Giorgio Moroder track with it's futuristic vocoder elements - but Man Parrish takes the energy to whole new level. He has marked a time where technology and dance music began their longtime relationship.

I have taken "Heatstroke" and added a few new breakdowns and playful edits along the way in this ReStructure Mix - an homage to Mr. Parrish.

REISSUE: “American Man” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ladies Choice





REISSUE: “American Man” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ladies Choice Ladies Choice is an electronic dance project from Gino D’ Orazio and Tony Bentivegna of Nightlife Unlimited. One of the big Canadian disco singles of the early 80’s and a huge dance floor packer for me. This one uses all of the keyboard power to generate a rolling dance track that has more power to it than a protein drink. It reverberates back and forth as the Lime hits of the time and features their vocalist from Motion (“Don’t Stop”) – an earlier hit project. I have taken the 12” version of “American Man” and recharged the experience in this ReStructure Mix using the syn-drum riffs and keyboards in a new arrangement. A sexy break is added to explain just what those “American Men” can do.

REISSUE: "Love Fever" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine





REISSUE: "Love Fever" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte lead the disco train with their classic productions from 1977 by Munich Machine - which consisted of a group of musicians from Munich, Germany who also backed artists like Donna Summer and Roberta Kelly. Their second LP from 1978 was "A Whiter Shade Of Pale" which contained a remake of the Procal Harum rock classic from 1967 done with Moroder's classic synthesizer and keyboard feel - a kind of robotic symphony. "Love Fever" was track which also fared well for play during this time - and my earliest recollection was the use of the synth piece for commercials and televised sports events. It is quite a pumping track. Vocals are performed by Chris Bennett (who is pictured in the cover ad) - Chris is still performing today and also accompanied Giorgio in an LP titled "Love's In You, Love's In Me" under the name Giorgio and Chris from 1978. I have ReStructured the piece and extended the intro with a collection of elements from the vocals and strings - it also contains a new bass-synth break that keep the moog synthesizer pumping along.

REISSUE: "Bang A Gong" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Witch Queen





REISSUE: "Bang A Gong" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Witch Queen Gino Soccio and Peter Alves created studio band, Witch Queen in 1978 at The Muscle Shoals Sound Studio - along with Denis LePage on synthesizers and his back-up vocal ensemble including Heather Gauthier, John Oriettas, Mario Cadotte and Paul Chacra. The project included two disco covers of two rock classics: "All Right Now" by Free from 1970 and "Bang A Gong" by T. Rex from 1971. Soccio and Alves take the rock classic "Bang A Gong" into an electronic feel with a hard hitting and hand-smacking disco arrangement. I have ReStructured the track and added a few beat percussion elements and effects to give the mix a bit more freedom. It is fare to the original with the ReStructure flavor of not falling too close!

Saturday, December 21, 2019

DISCO TOP CHOICE - FIRST CHOICE



DISCO TOP CHOICE - FIRST CHOICE

“Let Me Down Easy” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – First Choice - https://youtu.be/502MODwgwEI
“Great Expectations" by First Choice - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/r-A0dYnqrfQ
“Breakaway” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – First Choice - https://youtu.be/MJrX8q79-Mw
“Double Cross” by First Choice – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/PDLHIgkWM3Y
"Hold Your Horses" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - First Choice - https://youtu.be/twICe_mnqOY

REISSUE: "Hold Your Horses" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - First Choice





REISSUE: "Hold Your Horses" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - First Choice
The golden age of disco produced great classics - from the label that practically shaped the perfect sound of disco came First Choice. Salsoul Records was on top during this period - true disco ruled. This fabulous song was the finest energy to come in 1978 - great production and the vocals of the disco divas themselves. My ReStructure breaks out more of the strings and fine percussion elements of "Hold Your Horses". This remix is lovingly dedicated to Michael Rosensteel - who was there with me when the beat was on top and is still the finest friend. Michael, this one is for the energy you give me!

REISSUE: “Double Cross” by First Choice – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: “Double Cross” by First Choice – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera First Choice is the Philly-trio with the groove that center in on soul with the smooth sound that made disco a household word. Their 1979 album “Hold Your Horses” had arrived with enough ammunition to set dance floors ablaze. The title track was only the beginning in this package produced by Tom Moulton, Thor Baldursson, McKinley Jackson and Norman Harris. Deep garage disco with sparkle of this trio’s magic notes. I have taken “Double Cross” and blended it with 1986 black comedy “Ruthless People” starring Danny DeVito, Bette Midler and Judge Reinhold. The upset story of revenge, blackmail and plenty of surprises labels well with the undermining cheat and realization of the disco number. The film was directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker Featuring scenes from “Ruthless People” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons (based on his idea)

REISSUE: “Breakaway” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – First Choice





REISSUE: “Breakaway” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – First Choice First Choice is female ensembles who brought the Philly dance sound alive with the soulful and feel of the garage identity which eventually became the house sound of the 80s and 90s. A funk fest of vocals in a disco aura created by Annette Guest, Debbie Martin, Rochelle Fleming, Ursula Herring and Wardell Piper. Their finale album from 1980 contained the title track, “Breakaway” which continued the spirit of that sound of Philadelphia and magic of disco polish. Produced by Norman Harris and Ron Tyson. I have taken the album version of “Breakaway” and have given it the ReStructure Mix image with more of the guitar pieces and funky bass bounce – adding some new beats and breaks. It is a bit extended with some familiar samples of these ladies who make the night a great place to be!

REISSUE: “Great Expectations" by First Choice - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera





REISSUE: “Great Expectations" by First Choice - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera First Choice are the soul divas of disco music. Their catalogue of music is overwhelming when you place their talents are the realm of disco music and it's history. Their 1979 LP "Hold Your Horses" is one of the pinnacle moments in dance music. From this project came "Great Expectations" - a track about the lure of a love relationship and the promise of lasting celebration. It was this production, which also gave disco a full arrangement of strings, horns and rhythm to call a disco staple. My love for both cinema and disco music are combined to it's fullest as I have taken the Charles Dickens's classic novel turned film in 1946 "Great Expectations" - the film stars John Mills, Anthony Wager, Jean Simmons, Valerie Hobson and Alec Guinness - it was directed by David Lean and produced by Ronald Neame (of "The Poseidon Adventure"). Although the tale is focused on social classes and romance it fits well with the drama of the strings and outline of First Choice's disco classic. Featuring scenes from "Great Expectations" - RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Mr. Tom Moulton - who also mixed the Salsoul single, "Great Expectations"

REISSUE: “Let Me Down Easy” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – First Choice





REISSUE: “Let Me Down Easy” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – First Choice First Choice holds a record as the pure sound of disco from beginning to end. An extreme blend of soulful vocals on a disco stage. Their 1978 album “Hold Your Horses” – produced by Tom Moulton, Thor Baldursson, and McKinley Jackson is the top of disco peaks with so many tracks that pair out as winning. “Let Me Down Easy” is from the side one medley and starts out like a bang and continues with chorus and chorus of definitive vocals and reason. This cover of the Rare Pleasure classic from 1976 stays close to the original adding only a powerful jazz and drum session to give it the disco edge of its time. I have taken the album version of “Let Me Down Easy” and reworked as much as possible a new ReStructure Mix using many of the peak hour live remix techniques to present a whole new edit. This one is a top 100 for me and always had me proud of what the dance floor held in high esteem then. The First Choice sound given a booth uplift!

Blog Archive