"Poinciana" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paradise Express

• "Poinciana" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paradise Express

In 1978, Paradise Express released their first LP. Producers Henry Cosby and Phil Jones gave Herb Jimmerson and his wife and lead vocalist, Vi Ann their break on the disco scene. But it was not long after when they caught onto the formula that was necessary for dance floors and came forth with the second LP, “Let’s Fly”. Both LPs are winners. They contain Jimmerson’s magic keyboards and Vi Ann’s fabulous vocals. On this first LP “Poinciana” was my choice for one of the loveliest tracks recorded for a cover song – recorded by Bing Crosby in 1944 and charted at the time.

The backing vocals on the first LP were performed magnificently by Two Tons O’ Fun (Izora Rhodes and Martha Wash) and Sharon Hymes giving the songs a touch of magic.

I had the privilege of seeing Paradise Express here in San Diego back in 1979 at a local club when “You Set Me On Fire” and “Let’s Fly” were on top of the dance charts. It was an incredible experience – Vi Ann truly brought the house down and Herb was right by her side. Not much is known about them and where they are now, but these LPs and this song will live on forever in many disco enthusiasts minds and feet.

My ReStructure gives “Poinciana” a chance to reach some new listeners and dancers.

"Poinciana" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paradise Express

• "Poinciana" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paradise Express

In 1978, Paradise Express released their first LP. Producers Henry Cosby and Phil Jones gave Herb Jimmerson and his wife and lead vocalist, Vi Ann their break on the disco scene. But it was not long after when they caught onto the formula that was necessary for dance floors and came forth with the second LP, “Let’s Fly”. Both LPs are winners. They contain Jimmerson’s magic keyboards and Vi Ann’s fabulous vocals. On this first LP “Poinciana” was my choice for one of the loveliest tracks recorded for a cover song – recorded by Bing Crosby in 1944 and charted at the time.

The backing vocals on the first LP were performed magnificently by Two Tons O’ Fun (Izora Rhodes and Martha Wash) and Sharon Hymes giving the songs a touch of magic.

I had the privilege of seeing Paradise Express here in San Diego back in 1979 at a local club when “You Set Me On Fire” and “Let’s Fly” were on top of the dance charts. It was an incredible experience – Vi Ann truly brought the house down and Herb was right by her side. Not much is known about them and where they are now, but these LPs and this song will live on forever in many disco enthusiasts minds and feet.

My ReStructure gives “Poinciana” a chance to reach some new listeners and dancers.

"This Is My Life (La Vita)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shirley Bassey

• "This Is My Life (La Vita)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shirley Bassey

In 1979 Shirley Bassey joined the dance floor for a rendition of her 1976 hit, “This Is My Life” – the track had enough drama to bring a roaring chorus line to the center of any dance floor. The best part of this recording is that it was produced by Rick Gianatos and listed on the United Artists 12” as “"rerecorded by" due to contractual conflict with original album producers.” An interesting piece of information.

The original mix flows beautifully and builds into a crescendo for Bassey to be “Bassey” – a great disco cover. I have taken bits and pieces of this classic and created my ReStructure with a new direction. Some stops and pauses along the way break the song down into a vision.

Thanks to Alan for the request and this one is “for you!”

"This Is My Life (La Vita)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shirley Bassey

• "This Is My Life (La Vita)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shirley Bassey

In 1979 Shirley Bassey joined the dance floor for a rendition of her 1976 hit, “This Is My Life” – the track had enough drama to bring a roaring chorus line to the center of any dance floor. The best part of this recording is that it was produced by Rick Gianatos and listed on the United Artists 12” as “"rerecorded by" due to contractual conflict with original album producers.” An interesting piece of information.

The original mix flows beautifully and builds into a crescendo for Bassey to be “Bassey” – a great disco cover. I have taken bits and pieces of this classic and created my ReStructure with a new direction. Some stops and pauses along the way break the song down into a vision.

Thanks to Alan for the request and this one is “for you!”

"All Night Thing" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Invisible Man's Band

• "All Night Thing" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Invisible Man's Band

It was close to the disco era and bands like The Brothers Johnston were giving us tracks like "Stomp" that were infusing funk with disco - this was the ultimate fare for bands like S.O.S. Band and their hit "Take Your Time".

Invisible Man's Band took charge at the end of 1979 with "All Night Thing" - a somewhat beautiful disco/funk dance number incorporating strings, horns, percussion and a soulful male ensemble. Produced by Alex Masucci and Clarence Burke this track was one of the greatest treats in it's disco genre.

This ReStructure Mix gives the song a new intro and some looped breaks and hooks to bring it into a whole new sound. Michael from San Diego was one of my oldest "party buds" from 1981 and I dedicate this to Michael after he suggested it. It is still a great stomp-er.

"All Night Thing" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Invisible Man's Band

• "All Night Thing" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Invisible Man's Band

It was close to the disco era and bands like The Brothers Johnston were giving us tracks like "Stomp" that were infusing funk with disco - this was the ultimate fare for bands like S.O.S. Band and their hit "Take Your Time".

Invisible Man's Band took charge at the end of 1979 with "All Night Thing" - a somewhat beautiful disco/funk dance number incorporating strings, horns, percussion and a soulful male ensemble. Produced by Alex Masucci and Clarence Burke this track was one of the greatest treats in it's disco genre.

This ReStructure Mix gives the song a new intro and some looped breaks and hooks to bring it into a whole new sound. Michael from San Diego was one of my oldest "party buds" from 1981 and I dedicate this to Michael after he suggested it. It is still a great stomp-er.

"Save Your Love For Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Space

• "Save Your Love For Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Space

Produced by Jean Philippe Iliesco and Composed by Didier Marouani this album was the third project by Space. The first LP displayed a futuristic outline of dance music in the formation of a new age keyboard in it's early stages. Dance floors welcomed this sound with open arms.

"Save Your Love For Me" was a fast track from the LP clocking in around 140 BPM - originally if you heard this song in a club it was rolling out an imaginary road to techno music for dancers. The vocal by Madeline Bell (backup for Donna Summer's early LP) is one of the most haunting - she created this feel over and over for these projects beginning with "Carry On, Turn Me On".

I have taken the original LP track to ReStructure rather than use the 12" remix to keep the track in it's original state. I dedicate this ReStructure to DJ Peter Calandra of Seattle who reminded me that this track can still be played today and create such wonder over it's beauty.

"Save Your Love For Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Space

• "Save Your Love For Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Space

Produced by Jean Philippe Iliesco and Composed by Didier Marouani this album was the third project by Space. The first LP displayed a futuristic outline of dance music in the formation of a new age keyboard in it's early stages. Dance floors welcomed this sound with open arms.

"Save Your Love For Me" was a fast track from the LP clocking in around 140 BPM - originally if you heard this song in a club it was rolling out an imaginary road to techno music for dancers. The vocal by Madeline Bell (backup for Donna Summer's early LP) is one of the most haunting - she created this feel over and over for these projects beginning with "Carry On, Turn Me On".

I have taken the original LP track to ReStructure rather than use the 12" remix to keep the track in it's original state. I dedicate this ReStructure to DJ Peter Calandra of Seattle who reminded me that this track can still be played today and create such wonder over it's beauty.

"Carnival Movement" - Mix by Glenn Rivera

"Carnival Movement" - Mix by Glenn Rivera

CLICK HERE TO VISIT CARNIVAL

A blend of latin, calypso and disco rhythms - this set I mixed for a Mardi-Gras Party back in 1991 at Rich's in San Diego, CA.

1) Jibaro - Electra
2) Que Mala Suerte - Alejandro Jaen
3) Bahamas - Harry Thurman's Kangaroo
4) Hot Hot Hot - Arrow
5) La Bamba - Antonio Rodriguez
6) Carribean Disco Show - Lobo
7) Latin Odyssey - Voyage
8) Carribean Magic - Lobo
9) El Watusi, La Bamba - Rags To Riches
10) Open Mind - Jean Luc Ponty
11) One For You, One For Me - La Bionda
12) Touch By Touch (12 Inch Remix) - Diana Ross
13) Do It - Celena Duncan

"Carnival Movement" - Mix by Glenn Rivera

"Carnival Movement" - Mix by Glenn Rivera

CLICK HERE TO VISIT CARNIVAL

A blend of latin, calypso and disco rhythms - this set I mixed for a Mardi-Gras Party back in 1991 at Rich's in San Diego, CA.

1) Jibaro - Electra
2) Que Mala Suerte - Alejandro Jaen
3) Bahamas - Harry Thurman's Kangaroo
4) Hot Hot Hot - Arrow
5) La Bamba - Antonio Rodriguez
6) Carribean Disco Show - Lobo
7) Latin Odyssey - Voyage
8) Carribean Magic - Lobo
9) El Watusi, La Bamba - Rags To Riches
10) Open Mind - Jean Luc Ponty
11) One For You, One For Me - La Bionda
12) Touch By Touch (12 Inch Remix) - Diana Ross
13) Do It - Celena Duncan

"Rhythm Of The World" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio

• "Rhythm Of The World" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio

If you wondering how Gino Soccio found his way in another ReStructure you probably don’t know this album very well. How could I resist?

“Rhythm Of The World” is probably one of the finest disco numbers in the early 80’s to begin a trance-like feel with Soccio’s hypnotic synthesizers and his flawless arrangements. They may sound simple, but as his first hit “Dancer” proved he is ingenious. This track would bounce off of the floor during its play in large clubs and pound out its motivation, which is “move”.

A bit intrinsic of disco music and is a formation of the technology that was approaching close by. Soccio can be set in his own category with the sounds he has created with this project. It got better in forthcoming album

Special thanks again to DJ Joey for giving me the inspiration for retouching another classic by Gino Soccio – may the sound ring on forever!

"Rhythm Of The World" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio

• "Rhythm Of The World" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio

If you wondering how Gino Soccio found his way in another ReStructure you probably don’t know this album very well. How could I resist?

“Rhythm Of The World” is probably one of the finest disco numbers in the early 80’s to begin a trance-like feel with Soccio’s hypnotic synthesizers and his flawless arrangements. They may sound simple, but as his first hit “Dancer” proved he is ingenious. This track would bounce off of the floor during its play in large clubs and pound out its motivation, which is “move”.

A bit intrinsic of disco music and is a formation of the technology that was approaching close by. Soccio can be set in his own category with the sounds he has created with this project. It got better in forthcoming album

Special thanks again to DJ Joey for giving me the inspiration for retouching another classic by Gino Soccio – may the sound ring on forever!

Machine Gun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Commodores

• Machine Gun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Commodores

1974 was the release of second LP for the very talented Commodores - Produced Gloria Jones ("Bring On The Love"),Jeffrey Bowen (Bonnie Pointer), Pam Sawyer(Diana Ross) and James Anthony Carmichael. It lives off of the soulful edge of music by Billy Paul and artists who were incorporating keyboards as an instrumental tag, this track is "dynamite!"

"Machine Gun" was featured in the 1977 film, "Looking For Mr. Goodbar" as a base for the sound of disco music for the time. This outta-site track features wah-wah guitars and slamming keyboards. The original track ran for 2:39 - I have extended the track by looping and transforming some of the major keyboard arrangements into new bridges and chords.

The song has recently made it back into a new film which I will find post the title when it is released.

This goes out to the hard-core disco lovers from way back when soul was it's daddy...

Machine Gun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Commodores

• Machine Gun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Commodores

1974 was the release of second LP for the very talented Commodores - Produced Gloria Jones ("Bring On The Love"),Jeffrey Bowen (Bonnie Pointer), Pam Sawyer(Diana Ross) and James Anthony Carmichael. It lives off of the soulful edge of music by Billy Paul and artists who were incorporating keyboards as an instrumental tag, this track is "dynamite!"

"Machine Gun" was featured in the 1977 film, "Looking For Mr. Goodbar" as a base for the sound of disco music for the time. This outta-site track features wah-wah guitars and slamming keyboards. The original track ran for 2:39 - I have extended the track by looping and transforming some of the major keyboard arrangements into new bridges and chords.

The song has recently made it back into a new film which I will find post the title when it is released.

This goes out to the hard-core disco lovers from way back when soul was it's daddy...

I Wanna Take You There (Now) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio

• I Wanna Take You There (Now) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio

Disco music made it possible for some musicians to find a place they could call there own. Donna Summer, Alec R. Costandinos, Cerrone, etc. During the transition to a more synthetic and artistic approach at disco music, Gino Soccio emerged. Soccio had worked on several studio projects prior to his solo LP - Kebekelektrik, Bombers, Karen Silver and Witch Queen. His concept on the live instrumental 60's rock style influence and the art of electronic music which created his first solo hit, "Dancer." This song gave Soccio the key to disco city.

In 1980 as disco music began to insist on a reformation of style since nu-wave Jamaican influenced music and pop were taking over the charts and dance floor again. Soccio had the answer, "S-Beat". This LP featured several songs in various genres which maintained his engineering techniques. The tracks which held on to his disco persuasion were "Rhythm Of The World" and "I Wanna Take You There (Now)" - both cuts being as innovative and true to a new sound as Soccio had delivered on his first LP.


I have taken "I Wanna Take You There (Now)" and added so to speak edges to the square - creating a flow for the song and added several breakdowns. It doesn't quite tell any story - but "dance to the music!"





This ReStructure is dedicated to DJ Joey - whose love for true disco music and fondness for Soccio are enough to motivate this mix. Thank you, Joey!

I Wanna Take You There (Now) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio

• I Wanna Take You There (Now) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio

Disco music made it possible for some musicians to find a place they could call there own. Donna Summer, Alec R. Costandinos, Cerrone, etc. During the transition to a more synthetic and artistic approach at disco music, Gino Soccio emerged. Soccio had worked on several studio projects prior to his solo LP - Kebekelektrik, Bombers, Karen Silver and Witch Queen. His concept on the live instrumental 60's rock style influence and the art of electronic music which created his first solo hit, "Dancer." This song gave Soccio the key to disco city.

In 1980 as disco music began to insist on a reformation of style since nu-wave Jamaican influenced music and pop were taking over the charts and dance floor again. Soccio had the answer, "S-Beat". This LP featured several songs in various genres which maintained his engineering techniques. The tracks which held on to his disco persuasion were "Rhythm Of The World" and "I Wanna Take You There (Now)" - both cuts being as innovative and true to a new sound as Soccio had delivered on his first LP.


I have taken "I Wanna Take You There (Now)" and added so to speak edges to the square - creating a flow for the song and added several breakdowns. It doesn't quite tell any story - but "dance to the music!"





This ReStructure is dedicated to DJ Joey - whose love for true disco music and fondness for Soccio are enough to motivate this mix. Thank you, Joey!

"To Each His Own (That's My Philosophy)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Faith, Hope and Charity

• "To Each His Own (That's My Philosophy)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Faith, Hope and Charity

VanMcCoy brought us not only classics such as "Love Is The Message" and "The Hustle," but also Faith Hope and Charity's "To Each His Own (That's My Philosophy)" from their first LP in 1975. Is there much more that can be said about a classic dance number which continues to outline the era of early soul and disco music?

This cut boldly states more than a great philosophy in words - it states the funkiness of guitars and the beauty of strings flowing over a soulful chorus of voices which includes Albert Bailey, Brenda Hilliard, Destry and Zulema ("Change"). There is value and quality in this track, which will remain a true disco standard in plain sight.

Thanks to Alan for always supporting my cause and making it easy to fall in love with disco music over and over again - this one goes straight to you.

"To Each His Own (That's My Philosophy)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Faith, Hope and Charity

• "To Each His Own (That's My Philosophy)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Faith, Hope and Charity

VanMcCoy brought us not only classics such as "Love Is The Message" and "The Hustle," but also Faith Hope and Charity's "To Each His Own (That's My Philosophy)" from their first LP in 1975. Is there much more that can be said about a classic dance number which continues to outline the era of early soul and disco music?

This cut boldly states more than a great philosophy in words - it states the funkiness of guitars and the beauty of strings flowing over a soulful chorus of voices which includes Albert Bailey, Brenda Hilliard, Destry and Zulema ("Change"). There is value and quality in this track, which will remain a true disco standard in plain sight.

Thanks to Alan for always supporting my cause and making it easy to fall in love with disco music over and over again - this one goes straight to you.

"Ritmo de Brazil" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ultimate

• "Ritmo de Brazil" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ultimate

Euro-disco began with the fusion of soulful band elements meeting lush and melodic strings. US influences began with The Philly Sound (The Three Degrees, O'Jays, MFSB, etc.) and during the disco peak many producers were working to reproduce a sound which was geared towards the modern dance floor of the time. More synthesizers and electronic gadgetry played a role in updating this feel - Boris Midney's sound was the first and bravest attempt at doing so. This project from Juliana Salerni and recording engineer, Bruce Weeden (who played guitars in Midney's first USA EUROPEAN CONNECTION LP) was a touch of Cerrone meets that modern day sound. Also credited are Elton Farokh Ahi (Destination, Stereo Fun, Inc.) and Casablanca's Marc Paul Simon.

"Love Is The Ultimate (Medley)" became the track which took most of the excitement but on a closer look at the LP there were sounds on the B side which outlined the Euro-feel that was being perfected. "Ritmo de Brazil" received allot of airplay as well as became a favorite among listeners.

I have taken the track and extended it into several breakdowns - adding a touch of percussion here and there. This one is dedicated to all the hardcore Euro-dance junkies and a reminder of how "beautiful" dance music can be timeless.

"Ritmo de Brazil" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ultimate

• "Ritmo de Brazil" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ultimate

Euro-disco began with the fusion of soulful band elements meeting lush and melodic strings. US influences began with The Philly Sound (The Three Degrees, O'Jays, MFSB, etc.) and during the disco peak many producers were working to reproduce a sound which was geared towards the modern dance floor of the time. More synthesizers and electronic gadgetry played a role in updating this feel - Boris Midney's sound was the first and bravest attempt at doing so. This project from Juliana Salerni and recording engineer, Bruce Weeden (who played guitars in Midney's first USA EUROPEAN CONNECTION LP) was a touch of Cerrone meets that modern day sound. Also credited are Elton Farokh Ahi (Destination, Stereo Fun, Inc.) and Casablanca's Marc Paul Simon.

"Love Is The Ultimate (Medley)" became the track which took most of the excitement but on a closer look at the LP there were sounds on the B side which outlined the Euro-feel that was being perfected. "Ritmo de Brazil" received allot of airplay as well as became a favorite among listeners.

I have taken the track and extended it into several breakdowns - adding a touch of percussion here and there. This one is dedicated to all the hardcore Euro-dance junkies and a reminder of how "beautiful" dance music can be timeless.