ReStructure Mix Update (1/14/15) “That’s Where The Happy People Go” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Trammps

ReStructure Mix Update (1/14/15) “That’s Where The Happy People Go” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Trammps
The Trammps are a soul ensemble from the 60’s whose influence of disco music is a great memory for many who experienced the transition in the mid-70s of soul/Philly blend to a club/disco feel. Their 1976 hit “Disco Inferno” is still an iconic piece of dance music. “That’s Where The Happy People Go” from the album by the same name is another anthem which brings a groove which helped to make dance floor intentity with both the music as well as the discotheque scene.

I have taken the 12” version of “That’s Where The Happy People Go” and worked a new ReStructure Mix to bring out that hand-clappin’ groove with a new arrangement and a few added breaks. The chorus is one of the great tie-line with the mid-70s scene and brings back the excitement all over again.

ReStructure Mix Update (1/13/15) “High Energy” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Evelyn Thomas

ReStructure Mix Update (1/13/15) “High Energy” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Evelyn Thomas

Evelyn Thomas began recording in 1976 – her first single “Doomsday” produced by Danny Leake and Ian Levine. The path of soul and funk music to disco leads her success to brighter days. Her 1984 project “High Energy” produced again by Ian Levine along with Fiachra Trench gave way to a new anthem for the 80s dance scene. This track blasted its way into club and created excitement and energy. With Evelyn’s fabulous vocal and performances this one took off like a firecracker in flames.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to create this ReStructure Mix which focuses on “High Energy” as an event more than a dance track. It pulses in and out of the fantastic instrumental and Evelyn’s classic vocal version. It was always a huge number in my book and continues to remind me of the power of music and uplifting theme!

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the lovely Ms. Evelyn Thomas – who has never left us short of emotion and energy. Thank you, Evelyn!

ReStructure Mix Update (1/12/15) “The Twilight Tone” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Manhattan Transfer

ReStructure Mix Update (1/12/15) “The Twilight Tone” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Manhattan Transfer

The Manhattan Transfer is Alan Paul, Janis Siegel, Laurel Masse and Tim Hauser – the vocal group began recording in 1971 and time the them into 1979 and a disco track from their “Extensions” album. The track is clever use of the classic feel of the vocal foursome and also added a disco edge with a take on the theme from the classic television show “The Twilight Zone” by Bernard Hermann – the recording also features Jeff Porcaro on drums and bongos and Michael Boddicker on synthesizers.

I have taken the album version and worked a refreshing ReStructure Mix with much more of that mystic “twilight tone” and a few new breaks. It was always a successful dance floor track for me and from its following it has left a good mysterious memory in many dancers’ minds.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Jenny Moreno – thanks for your kind words and for requesting this great tune!

ReStructure Mix Update (1/11/15) “Shadow Dancing” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Andy Gibb

ReStructure Mix Update (1/11/15) “Shadow Dancing” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Andy Gibb

Andy Gibb is one of the younger siblings of the Bee Gee’s trio. His solo career as a pop singer and teen idol began in 1977 and following the release of his single “Shadow Dancing” in 1978 a whole new audience and following of the funky-pop edge was created. The track was produced by Albhy Galuten and Barry Gibb with the sound that the Bee Gees molded in the mid-70s. It is more of a radio success than club although many jocks with dancers yearning for that Bee Gees edge found it a nice bump and grind piece.

I have taken the 12” extended version of “Shadow Dancing” and created a new ReStructure Mix with more rhythm break-down and some play with segments of the vocal. It plays out more like a dub mix during the last breath – but also stays true to the original mix.

“Paradise Island” by The Wonderland Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Paradise Island” by The Wonderland Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

The Wonderland Band is a concept disco project with theme focusing on super-heroes – Wonder Woman and Superman. The production by Morrie Brown (Evelyn King, B.T. Express) is a full orchestration with the funky band feel of the last of the classic disco themed projects. All of the tracks from the “Wonder Woman” album are feasible for disco and high energy and a few are now classics. “Paradise Island” is an anthem for the fantasy world of disco dance floors and maintains its feel even today. A new take of the source of super-hero Wonder Woman and the island of her training to fight for truth and justice.

I have created a Disco Video Mix using scenes from the 1975 television series focusing on the pilot that displays Paradise Island and the brief scenic visuals. Lynda Carter’s beauty and the now camp-transformation allows this disco fantasy to become a short reality here.

The show was created by Charles Moulton

Featuring scenes from “Woman Woman” – RENT THE DVDS!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

“Reflections” by Evelyn Thomas – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Reflections” by Evelyn Thomas – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Evelyn Thomas gives a performance with brings emotions and energy together in her 1985 single “Reflections” – a cover of the 1967 song by The Supremes. This drum pounding high energy winner is one of my favorite’s pieces from the 80s and contains the Evelyn Thomas performance of a lifetime – very suitable and driven. The track was produced by Ian Levine and Fiachra Trench.

I have taken scenes from the 1976 Italian musical-fantasy “A Matter Of Time” starring Liza Minnelli – the film also stars Ingrid Bergman however the focus for this Disco Video Mix relies on Liza’s performance. The drama and heartbreak of “Reflections” is brought to life with visions of Liza ‘reflecting’ on a friendship and love in the movies storyline. It gives Evelyn’s fabulous track a new meaning.

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Ms. Evelyn Thomas – in thanks for all of the magic she has given dance floors around the world.

The film was directed by Vincent Minnelli

Featuring scenes from "A Matter Of Time" RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

ReStructure Mix Update (1/8/15) “I Got A Line On You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Patrick Cowley

ReStructure Mix Update (1/8/15) “I Got A Line On You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Patrick Cowley

Patrick Cowley worked on several projects during the late 70s which began his fantastic synthesizer-dose along with his vision of a futuristic dance fusion sound. Tracks like Sylvester’s “Dance (Disco Heat)” reached levels of energy with Cowley’s assistance. “Menergy” is his 1981 album which brought dance floors a new sound and imagination to move and fantasize with. “I Got A Line On You” is a single from this project and a cover of the 1968 psychedelic rock track by Spirit. An appropriate remake for Cowley to tackle since his electronic work was a psychedelic-electro layer on disco music itself.

I have taken the album version of “I Got A Line On You” – which features vocals by Jo-Carol Block Davidson and Lauren Carter (also known as Jolo) and created a ReStructure Mix using the original version in parts and also enhancing Cowley’s original arrangement. It is a mind-bending song as a disco track and the new version adds to the trip.

“Tiger Baby” by Silver Convention – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Tiger Baby” by Silver Convention – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
   
Silver Convention released their first album “Save Me” in 1975 – produced by Michael Kunze. “Tiger Baby” is one of the singles which gives the formula of the groups sound in strings and sweet-sexy harmonies. It is the disco-boogie period of history which makes the essence of this music come alive. I have taken the album version of the song to create a Disco Video Mix to pay homage to these wonderful ladies and Mr. Michael Kunze for his vision and gift to dance floors.

“The Tiger Woman” is a 1944 serial film which was released by Republic Pictures – it stars Linda Stirling as the lovely black and white creature. The episode “Perils of the Darkest Jungle” provide some of the action for our disco landscape.

The film was directed by Spencer Bennett and Wallace Grissell

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

ReStructure Mix Update (1/6/15) “(The Best Part Of) Breakin’ Up” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Roni Griffith

ReStructure Mix Update (1/6/15) “(The Best Part Of) Breakin’ Up” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Roni Griffith

Roni Griffith gave the early 80s a nice path into high energy music with her solo album produced by Bobby Orlando. This formula involved Orlando’s wall of percussion and his light iconic synthesizer accompaniment. One of the most seductive of his sounds with Roni’s voice presenting a nice femme a la disco beat performance. “(The Best Part Of) Breakin’ Up” is a cover of The Ronettes 1964 pop-track – originally arranged by Jack Nitzche. This full force disco arrangement gives us a jungle pounding percussion outline. It is one of the most recognizable and one of Orlando’s most memorable works.

I have taken the 12” single and looped that jungle sound into a ReStructure Mix adding only a few new rhythm beats and additional kicks to give this ritual another dub-like opportunity to move you head, feet and soul. A big hit for most that played it and will always mark the disco career of Ms. Griffith.

Dedicated to Ms. Roni Griffith for her wonderful work and energy given to clubs and dancers.

ReStructure Mix Update (1/5/15) “I’m Gonna Make You Want Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gina Lamour

ReStructure Mix Update (1/5/15) “I’m Gonna Make You Want Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gina Lamour

Gina Lamour is a high energy disco artist from the early and mid-80s who follows the path of synth-pop artists like Stacy Q. Her sound is a sensual and dramatic delivery of disco stage appeal with the lip gloss and pulsating beat. “I’m Gonna Make You Want Me” is her 1985 single produced by high energy master, Ian Anthony Stephens – who also gave us singles by Paul Parker, Hazell Dean, The Flirtations and Lisa. His electro-symphonic arrangements were a great return to the disco edge in the 80s.

I have taken the vocal and instrumental from the 12” single and created a new ReStructure Mix which adds a few more sticks of dynamite to bring the catchy and lyrical chorus and Gina’s sexy energy to a new part. It was a nice high energy track during its release and will remind dancers of the electronic wall-of-sound that high energy created for more dance fantasies!

“Baby Sitter” by Soul Iberca Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Baby Sitter” by Soul Iberca Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Soul Iberca Band is a disco project from 1976 – produced by Daniel Vangarde (Gibson Brothers) and Jean Kluger (Nightschool).  Their 1977 disco single “Baby Sitter” is a funky riff on a sexy baby sitter theme – which plays out with plenty of horns, wind and funky guitars to a disco crescendo. A great novelty piece and also an early disco-funk import which made many DJs and dancers feel the energy of a formula exploding in discotheques.

This Disco Video Mix takes scenes from the 1987 comedy “Adventures In Babysitting” and places Elizabeth Shue in the footsteps of our funky heroine. The video plays out on scenes from the unexpected trip into the city and the situations that make a night memorable for her job and mischievous kids.

The film was directed by Chris Columbus

Featuring scenes from “Adventures In Babysitting” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

ReStructure Mix Update (1/4/15) “Island Boogie” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gregg Diamond’s Star Cruiser

ReStructure Mix Update (1/4/15) “Island Boogie” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gregg Diamond’s Star Cruiser

Gregg Diamond created a sound for dance floors with a funky-rock edged groove which helped to shape the sound of “boogie” music as it matured as disco. His project Star Cruiser is a 1978 follow up to his 1977 band Bionic Boogie. His earlier work with Andrea True and their classic, “More, More, More” leaves no wonder as how his talent marked an era with sophistication and disco magnitude. “Island Boogie” is from the Star Cruiser album and features lead vocals by Gordon Grody and back up from Diva Gray and Jocelyn Brown.

I have taken the album version to extend and play with a new ReStructure Mix giving way to more of that uplifting feel and fierce production by Diamond. It has always been one of my favorite tracks from Gregg Diamond and covers his lush strings and funky guitar arrangements completely.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the memory of this maestro – Mr. Gregg Diamond (1949-1999)

ReStructure Mix Update (1/3/15) “Scorpio” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dennis Coffey and The Detroit Guitar Band

ReStructure Mix Update (1/3/15) “Scorpio” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dennis Coffey and The Detroit Guitar Band

Dennis Coffey is a guitarist, composer and producer whose work on many funk, soul and disco projects mark an excellence in funky string work and style. Much of his work in the early 70s featured his brand of funk and soul which helped to make the shift into a beat-base dance formula called disco. “Scorpio” is a memorable funk piece which was released in 1971 on album “Evolution”. It is a follow up to the sound of soulful tracks by Isaac Hayes’ “Shaft” and seemed to explode during this period.

I have taken the album version of “Scorpio” and focused on the bongo tracks and lead guitar to fuse a whole new ReStructure Mix experience. It plays out as deadly as the load Coffey placed in this stick of disco dynamite. It is another example of how the ‘evolution’ of funk and soul played an important end in dance music history.

Dedicated to the man himself, Mr. Dennis Coffey – thanks to all of your gifts to ears and feet!

ReStructure Mix Update (12/19/14) “I Got The Answer” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carol Douglas

ReStructure Mix Update (12/19/14) “I Got The  Answer” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carol Douglas

Carol Douglas is a disco singer whose 1975 hit “Doctor’s Orders” helped to bring a sweet flavor to dance floors and a new energy to the mid and late 70s. Carol’s many contributions feature her sweet vocals which flow along with the yearning and loving feelings which disco music brought to clubs and dancers. “Come Into My Life” is Carol’s project from 1979, which features the track “I Got The Answer” – produced by Greg Carmichael. The fast moving love song is a perfect example of how the energy of disco music can make one fall in love faster than he or she can ever know.

I have taken the album version of “I Got The  Answer” and created a new ReStructure Mix to bring out the sweet symphonic elements infused with a touch of new cuts and edits to add a new force. It is one of Carol’s iconic vocals and helps to remind of why we used to fall in love at discotheques.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Nick and Lindsay – a request which I always feel moved to create from these connoisseurs of great disco divas and the lasting sensation of the disco sound.

ReStructure Mix Update (12/18/14) “Vogue” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Madonna

ReStructure Mix Update (12/18/14) “Vogue” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Madonna

Madonna took the 80s into her handcuffs by igniting a sound and style of synthetic pop and connecting her visual image and talent. Throughout the years of Madonna’s career there have been many new and sometimes controversial ventures but over all there is some great dance music contributed by this star. “Vogue” is a single from the soundtrack of the 1990 film “Dick Tracy” which also stars Madonna. An anthem for not only one of the dance floors unique cults but also a breakthrough single which is classified as a top hot dance track.

I have taken the 12” with a trio of fantastic mixes from Shep Pettibone and worked a new “pose” and ReStructure Mix for a new Madonna experience. This new bass driven and drop-in-and-out arrangement brings a new funky break to “bump and grind” to. It was quite fun to get lost and recreate this mix and should make a night worth fessin’ and dressin’ for.

ReStructure Mix Update (12/17/14) “Everybody, Everybody” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Black Box

ReStructure Mix Update (12/17/14) “Everybody, Everybody” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Black Box

Black Box began as a studio group featuring the fabulous Ms. Martha Wash (The Weather Girls, Two Ton’s ‘O Fun) as lead which sent dance floors into a high for Italian house music which was being formulated throughout the mid and late 80s. The sound was a soulful and rhythmic wall of energy which brought excitement and plenty of shaking hips alive. "Everybody, Everybody” is the second release following the big sample classic “Ride On Time”. This piece rejuvenated dance floors once again for a whole new period of dance music.

I have taken the 12” remixes and reworked a ReStructure Mix to pay homage to producers Daniele Davoli, Mirko Limoni, Valerio Semplici and also Ms. Martha Wash. Mixing up some of the main elements of this monster and adding a few more to break down the funky groove.

ReStructure Mix Update (12/12/14) “Power” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lipps Inc.

ReStructure Mix Update (12/12/14) “Power” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lipps Inc.

Lipps Inc. is one of the last breaths of disco music done right! Producer Steven Greenberg and lead vocalist Cynthia Johnson are the stars in their first release titled “Mouth To Mouth” – of course following the release of the disco classic “Funkytown” in 1979 the rest was dance history. The first album featured four great dance cuts all in a unique studio engineering innovation and an introduction to a new disco era.

“Power” has been given a ReStructure Mix with some new effects and some new drop out breaks. One of my favorite tracks of Lipps Inc. where the energy pumps and the vocals follow right along. It is a genuine dance track with a feel all of its own thanks to Greenberg’s genius.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to my sister Lolly – who I can remember seeing on a dance floor working this song with her masterful rhythm and love for disco music!

ReStructure Mix Update (12/9/14) “Love Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Model

ReStructure Mix Update (12/9/14) “Love Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Model
Man Parrish hit the dance scene in 1982 with his self-titled album which featured an array of dance flavors from street, hip-hop to high energy. Quite an important project for the time for me as it brought the electronic edge of energy from “Heatstroke” and then the electro hip hop sound of “Hip Hop, Be Bop (Don’t Stop)”. His work has always reflected an innovative edge and imaginative dance beat for the new high energy and electronic dance period of the early and mid-80s.

I have taken his production of “Love Me” by his studio group, Model – which was featured on the Disconet Issue Volume 7 Program 8 in 1985 – it featured vocals from Beth Rudetsky (sang back vocals for Alisha and co-wrote “Love Me” ). The high energy track has always been one of my favorite since the first time I was entering The Probe in Hollywood and heard, “Love me, love me, tell me that you love me…” echoing through the hall entrance. It is featured here with an extended ReStructure Mix with a few added effects and some of those fantastic drum breaks.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the man himself, Mr. Man Parrish – thank you Man for continuing the mystique and power of dance music. It continues to echo on and on!

ReStructure Mix Update (12/4/14) “Don’t Stop” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sylvester

ReStructure Mix Update (12/4/14) “Don’t Stop” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sylvester

Sylvester released “All I Need” in 1982 with a sizzling array of disco and early high energy disco tracks. It was a lifeboat for hardcore disco fans for not only the return of the great Sylvester, but also a pulsating sound provided by James Wirrick and producer John Hedges. “Don’t Stop” is the first of the numbers to make a debut in a serious blast. This was the blend of new electronic dance music and the gospel feel of Sylvester’s performances.

I have taken the album version of “Don’t Stop” and created a ReStructure Mix to bring more of that infectious rhythm to mind again. More of the flawless arrangement is played with a rearranged with Sylvester taking the stage again!

Dedicated to Mr. John Hedges for his place in disco/dance music history. His influence and work will burn on and on  in a “disco inferno”! Lots of love to you, John.

ReStructure Mix Update (12/3/14) “Out Of My Hands” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dionne Warwick

ReStructure Mix Update (12/3/14) “Out Of My Hands” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dionne Warwick

Dionne Warwick began her solo recording career in 1963 and continued to create a contemporary sound that is wedge of American pop music. Her 1979 album titled “Dionne” brought us the classic ballad “Déjà vu” (co-written by Isaac Hayes) and also a pop-dance track titled “Out Of My Hands” (written by her cousin and disco artist, Cissy Houston, Alvin Fields, of Michael Zager sessions, and Doug Frank. The production has a nice sequencer pattern weaving in and out of Dionne’s beautiful vocal.

I have taken the album version which clocks in at 3:17 where this ReStructure Mix extends a little over 8 minutes. I have added a new drum pattern and dub-esque effects to give the original more of a dance floor experience.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to a great man, Mr. Paul Conway who has been a great influence with dance and various genres of musical interests. Thank you Paul – this play is for your ears and feet! Much love.