ReStructure Mix Update (5/25/16) “Pieces Of Ice” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Diana Ross

ReStructure Mix Update (5/25/16) “Pieces Of Ice” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Diana Ross

Diana Ross moved into an abstract realm with her 1983 track, “Pieces Of Ice” along with producer Gary Katz. The song resembles a deep early morning number which brings a mysterious feel. It is obvious that a relationship is ending and a note is translated with an artistic mind. It was always a brave move for Ross in my ears and one of my favorite moods. From the album titled “Ross” and one of the most creative and clever video movements. The instrumental pulls out a rendering of the disco synthesizer into the 80s which is a perfect foundation for Diana’s moody and fearful vocal.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to create this ReStructure Mix which ventures off into several journeys using the synthetic ‘pieces’. I used more of the instrumental and several effects to complete Diana’s imaginative tune into a new side of the dance floor. Always a favorite and waited for the time when this remix could be taken into a reality.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/24/16) “Xanadu” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Olivia Newton- John

ReStructure Mix Update (5/24/16) “Xanadu” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Olivia Newton- John

Olivia Newton-John starred in the 1980 musical fantasy film, “Xanadu” along with Gene Kelly and music provided by Jeff Lynne and Electric Light Orchestra. The story of an Olympian muse returning to bring music and romance to an aspiring artist here on earth. The music is well remembered as we hear Olivia singing the title track and a few ballads that reached radio play charts. “Xanadu” is performed by Electric Light Orchestra along with Olivia’s sweet and promising vocal creating a lovely dance track. It is one of the classic among the stars fans and a good taste of 80s.

I have taken the soundtrack version of “Xanadu” to sprinkle a bit of ReStructure Mix feel to the production. The intro rolls in slowly with a few new elements and a new way of keeping the overture in place with some new breakdowns. More of Olivia is featured here with more of the magic which should have been displayed earlier in a remix since the song itself is a great theme for this escape.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/23/16) “Automatic Lover” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dee D. Jackson

ReStructure Mix Update (5/23/16) “Automatic Lover” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Dee D. Jackson

Dee D. Jackson released her worldwide disco hit, “Automatic Lover” in 1977 – produced by Patty Unwin and Gary Unwin. The single plays out a futuristic love call in a time where robots have replaced human companionship. One of the unique songs of its kind and produced with the electronic edge of disco to frame it perfectly. Dee D. performed on stage with a 60s sci-fi robot figure moving around her adorning space princess attire which made this number quite the camp piece.

I have taken the 1988 re-release of “Automatic Lover” featuring additional production by Michael Cretu and Frank Peter. This ReStructure Mix works more a space dub approach as I pieced the keyboards and sequencers into new parts for a more extreme feel. Dee D. is given a few more spots to work her vocal riffs along with the abstract groove in this version.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/22/16) “Tic Toc” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carrie Lucas

ReStructure Mix Update (5/22/16) “Tic Toc” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carrie Lucas

Carrie Lucas released her first solo album in 1977 titled “Simply Carrie” that contained the original version of her classic “I Gotta Keep Dancin’” (remixed, re-released and titled “Keep Smilin’” in 1980. Carrie in a voice in disco music which helped to bridge the connection of soul and the new club sound. “Tic Toc” is a track from her second project, “Street Corner Symphony” produced by Dick Griffey and The Whispers. The theme on several tracks has a touch of do-wop and the street sounds of soul. The final production brought out the disco club sound. “Tic Toc” is one of the bouncy numbers which reminds me of Dr. Buzzards Original Savannah Band with Carrie on the mic.

I have taken the album version of “Tic Toc” and gave the track a touch of the ReStructure Mix edge. A bit more of the big band/jazz with drums added and more that do wop sound with The Whispers. This one was requested by Nick and Lindsay as they always find the secret gems to transform into a new listening experience.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/15/16) “It’s Time To Party Now” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ray Parker Jr. and Raydio

ReStructure Mix Update (5/15/16) “It’s Time To Party Now” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ray Parker Jr. and Raydio

Ray Parker Jr. is a producer, musician and songwriter from Detroit, Michigan whose work in the 70s dance arena included Love Unlimited Orchestra. His blend of funk, disco and pop is the sound which helped the early 80s to appreciate a groove and slick arrangements he created. His four albums with Raydio from the late 70s are a funk venture with the groove which helped to move a new era of electronic dance music to life in the early 80s. “It’s Time To Party Now” is from the album “Two Places At The Same Time” and became one of the anthems of disco-funk.

I have taken the album version of “It’s Time To Party Now” is taken into the ReStructure Mix arena and chopped and rearranged with the elements that stood out for me. This was a great segue into a funk set and lower bpm dance tracks. A whole new reason to celebrate that 80s period of sheer purpose to hit the dance floor.

ReStructure Mix Update (5/9/16) “You Know How To Love Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Phyllis Hyman

ReStructure Mix Update (5/9/16) “You Know How To Love Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Phyllis Hyman

Phyllis Hyman is one of the most unforgettable voices of the 70s. Her solo recording debut in 1977 marked the start of many variations of soul, jazz, disco and rhythm and blues which haunt minds and hearts. “You Know How To Love Me” is Phyllis’ 1979 album produced by James Mtume and Reggie Lucas – who just finished launching a new disco career for Stephanie Mills (“What Cha Gonna Do With My Lovin’". The album is one of the most beautiful of the time period and features the title track which is a dance classic.

I have taken the album version of “You Know How To Love Me” and worked a new ReStructure Mix to mark the excitement of the track and stripping down some of the basic rhythms. It is more of a tribute and an alternative way of hearing Phyllis express the undying love and dedication which many of us have felt from the start.

ReStructure Mix Update (4/30/16) “Where Are You Now” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cerrone

ReStructure Mix Update (4/30/16) “Where Are You Now” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cerrone
Cerrone brought the sound of Euro-disco to the world giving a fusion of lush strings, funky bass and percussion new life. His production of “Love In ‘C” Minor” from 1976 gave an erotic touch to this style of music always considered sexy and pulsating. Cerrone released over 25 solo albums and well and various projects he arranged and produced. At the time any album bearing the make Cerrone or his production company, Malligator Records I scooped up knowing that it would always have a few dance floor hits or a very entertaining listening experience. “Where Are You Now” is from 1983 and takes Cerrone into a new era of dance music where most independent groups were cutting corners by enhancing the electronic edge of the music. It is obvious through this piece that his talent was extensive as he pulled more genius for 80s dance floors.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Where Are You Now” and worked a new part in the yearning of the song. The lead vocals by J.J. Fairlight and Mary Carewe give the sound of his original female ensemble the same flair with a whole new stage. This ReStructure Mix gives the intro more of layered and mysterious sound. Some looping of the soaring keyboards takes a new groove on. Always a favorite of mine and another reason I am always at awe of this man’s music and imagination – even today.

ReStructure Mix Update (4/29/16) “Lovemachine” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Supermax

ReStructure Mix Update (4/29/16) “Lovemachine” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Supermax

Supermax is a German band created by Kurt Hauenstein. The band played a fusion of rock and disco which is best understood through “Lovemachine” from 1977. A recording which brings an underground 60s feel to disco music. It is a masterpiece of dance music as the groove builds as each instrument layers itself over the dream—like sensual mood. It was always a popular track for me during early morning sets or trance disco playlists.

I have taken the album version of “Lovemachine” and imagined a ritual of drums pounding new energy into this moody piece. I have added more riffs using the existing parts along with some imaginative edits. This ReStructure Mix is played out as it was originally intended with a new facelift.

Dedicated to Herbert Gruber and the memory of Kurt Hauenstein (1949 – 2011)

ReStructure Mix Update (4/28/16) “Shout It Out” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Astaire

ReStructure Mix Update (4/28/16) “Shout It Out” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Astaire
Astaire is a high energy project from producers Nigel Stock and John Davies and on the UK high energy label Passion Records. The success of this sound of a pounding beat and keyboards that feel like a classical instrument are only the start here. Vocals for Astaire are provided early on by Tracy Ackerman and later Jill Saward. Many of the songs by Astaire are focused on the old disco concept of love, life and dancing. The massive impact of high energy music can be attributed to projects as this.

I have taken the song “Shout It Out” which is the B-side to the 1985 release of “In The Name Of Love” – both wonderful dance tracks that bring to mind a whole new feeling and excitement of dance floors in the early 80s. I used much of the keyboard riffs and layered over pieces to not only lengthen the song but also work a deeper experience that could only happen in a discotheque.

ReStructure Mix Update (4/27/16) “I Believed” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Alma Faye

ReStructure Mix Update (4/27/16) “I Believed” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Alma Faye
Alma Faye is a disco artist who brought a soulful sound to discotheques with her style and delivery. Her first dance single “Stop, I Don’t Need No Sympathy” from 1977 is a classic in the early period of disco music’s formulation and creative mind. Many of the tracks from her album “Doin’ It” from 1979 are either classic productions or worthy of something memorable. This is one of those voices that I found exciting and a sound that was close to the soulful edge of Philly with more. “Don’t Fall In Love” is one of the recordings that I hold dear to my heart and all-time playlists – the production by Dominic Sciscente and Michel Daigle is one of the best using the disco formula.

I have focused this issue of ReStructure Mixes to a request from Nick and Lindsay who always seem to bring out the rare and underground tracks for suggestions.

“I Believed” is one of the tracks from “Doin’ It” which plays out once again with a bittersweet emotions with a lush and soulful touch. The arrangement takes on a new feel and musical satisfaction. I have taken the album version and touched up the original with more beats and effects along with a whole new length. It was great fun to take this one onto the chopping block and then assemble it again with an early morning dance floor in mind.

ReStructure Mix Update (4/22/16) “Don’t Give It Up “ – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Linda Clifford

ReStructure Mix Update (4/22/16) “Don’t Give It Up “ – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Linda Clifford

Linda Clifford is the voice of disco/soul and funk with an Uptown sound and a flawless stage presence. Feeling the energy from Linda has always been through her music and the firm stance she makes in her delivery. One the divas of disco music who truly made a mark and set it in place with pure talent. Her third album “Let Me Be Your Woman” was a double vinyl project featuring a disco-fied version of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and also the big dance floor hit, “Don’t Give It Up” – which features a vocal and rap which Linda created for a timeline of disco history.

I have taken the 12” version of “Don’t Give It Up” and created a ReStructure Mix to give the chorus and verses the lead here and saved pieces of the rap for a closing edge. This one was always one where the dance floor packed so tightly none of the tile was visible. It is a stomper and one where the rhythm and Linda’s vocal becomes infectious.

This ReStructure Mix is lovingly dedicated to the lady herself – Linda Clifford!

“Workout” by Cerrone – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Workout” by Cerrone – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Cerrone’s album “IX – Your Love Survived” from 1982 contained various remixes of his classic work and also a new track titled, “Workout”. One of the elements of the early 80s which many dance bands took advantage of was the aerobics craze which many stars and health nuts took to the stage for. It worked well with the dance floor aura since we all know that dancing is one of the healthiest for the mind, soul and body. Okay, perhaps it was a bit much.

I have taken the song “Workout” and paired it up with the 1985 aerobics cult film, “Pulsebeat” where Daniel Green and Earleen Carey jump and grind to keep their aerobics top of the charts for the workout clubs. It is pure camp and silly fun. It plays out with hips and buns moving to and fro.

The film was directed by Maurice Tobias

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

ReStructure Mix Update (4/19/16) “Somebody Should Have Told Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cissy Houston

ReStructure Mix Update (4/19/16) “Somebody Should Have Told Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cissy Houston

Cissy Houston is gospel singer turned disco artist leaving a trail of dance hits in her unique soulful sound and the magic of producers, Michael Zager and Jerry Love. “Think It Over” from 1978 is the big single and album title which made disco music exciting during a big surge of dance fever around the world. “Somebody Should Have Told Me” is another single from the album which made as much sense as a dance hit as “Think It Over”- another big performance and Zager/Love foundation.

I have taken the version of “Somebody Should Have Told Me” from the 1979 album “Warning-Danger” – which featured an extended remix. This new ReStructure Mix is a work in dedication to Nick and Lindsay who are true lovers of the disco diva and music. Their request is fulfilled here in a new arrangement and added pieces of breaks and surprises. Thank you boys – you are inspirations!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/11/16) “Capsicum” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Stargo

ReStructure Mix Update (4/11/16) “Capsicum” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Stargo

Stargo is an Italo-disco project with Alberto Parodi, Andrea Tenerani and Roberto Zanetti. One of the early electronic dance tracks from 1983 which marked the raw sound of keyboards and accompanying choruses with a strange uplifting feel. The song titled “Capsicum” is named after a pepper which is obviously a theme for the love here who would like to be chewed like bubble gum with this flavor. A bit strange and the choruses sound like a jingle for a potential commercial for toothpaste with this flavor. It does have the robotic sequencer feel which roared at this time and was a big hit in my club at the time.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental on FlashBack Production Records from Italy and recreated a ReStructure Mix adding a new intro and fade which uses the keyboard riffs sparingly. It is one of those catchy tracks and a classic for Stargo and Italo-disco!

ReStructure Mix Update (4/4/16) “Boogie To The Bop” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mantus

ReStructure Mix Update (4/4/16) “Boogie To The Bop” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mantus

Mantus is Billy Armendola, Frank DeCrescenzo, Jimmy Maer and Kenny Bee – a New York City based band who took over dance floors with their big disco project, “Midnight Energy” in 1979. The big hits were “(Dance It) Freestyle Rhythm” and “Rock It To The Top” – the production by Will Crittendon was a force of percussion and funky disco grooves. One of the albums which every cut was playable and packed dance floors. The second album titled “Mantus” was released in 1980 and contained the big dance floor jammer, “Boogie To The Bop” which was one of the big hits in my club at the time.

I have taken the album version of “Boogie To The Bop” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix to bring the slight rap-piece into a new sound. Using pieces of a classic rap gem and also breaking the percussion into bits and pieces. It is has a longer play than the original and much more of the parts which make this one a hit.

“Airport Of Love” by Love International – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Airport Of Love” by Love International – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Love International is Philippe Chany and Philippe Krootchey – a synth-pop experimental dance group from 1981. Their single "Dance On The Groove (And Do The Funk)” was a surprise piece that brought the Italo-disco and funk scene to life in a new way. The single was accompanied by the flip-side track “Airport Of Love” which is another synth-pop track which was a nice piece of early morning sleaze for those jocks and listeners who were wise enough to give it a play. It was one of the elements of the early 80s which played out well during an experimental period.

I have created a short “playful” Disco Video Mix using scenes from the 1970 drama “Airport” starring Burt Lancaster, Dean Martin, Jacqueline Bisset and Jean Seberg. The production was the start of the 70s disaster film lineup and has the original elements which consisted of an all-star cast of big names and the focus of danger in many packages. This Disco Video Mix uses most of the love and romance for this disco track and plays out evenly like a trailer for the film.

The film was directed by George Seaton

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

“They Only Come Out At Night” by Peter Brown – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“They Only Come Out At Night” by Peter Brown – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Peter Brown is an extremely talented musician who brought some of the most incredible dance music to disco music from 1977 through the early 80s. Best know are “Do You Wanna Get Funky With Me”, “Dance With Me” and “Crank It Up”. His sound emerged from the Miami sound from disco label Drive Records and founder, Henry Stone. As a surviving disco artist of the late seventies he continued to bring a new sound fitting for changing times. A fully electronic arrangement and pop-synth vibe. “They Only Come Out At Night” is from his 1984 album, “Snap” which became a frequently played track appropriately for the clubs and nightlife scene.

I have taken “They Only Come Out At Night” and paired it with the 1971 science fiction film “The Omega Man” starring Charlton Heston and Rosalind Cash. The story follows one of the last surviving humans following biological warfare and his attempts to survive in a lonely metropolis as nocturnal mutants hunt him for death. The theme works with the disco in a more haunting sense.

The film was directed by Boris Segal

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

“Here I Am” by Mike Mareen – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Here I Am” by Mike Mareen – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Mike Mareen saved high energy music in the mid-80s with his blend of hard hitting keyboard riffs and rolling disco sequencer bass. His big dance floor hit, “Dancing In The Dark” from 1984 gave a new feel to the hard driving edge of imagination and the disco beat. “Here I Am” is from his 1985 album “LP Dance Control” and plays out like a terrifying love obsession in a broad and frightening sound. It is perfect for this Disco Video Mix.

I have taken the 2008 monster epic, “Cloverfield” which plays out in the director’s dreamy eyes as a creature for the United States as Godzilla is for Tokyo. The film is one of the frightening ones that I found in years and is perfect for the ominous sound of Mike Mareen’s “Here I Am” – only the monster is ominously announcing its presence vs. Mike’s love.

The film was directed by Matt Reeves

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

ReStructure Mix Update (3/14/16) “Love Sensation” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Loleatta Holloway

ReStructure Mix Update (3/14/16) “Love Sensation” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Loleatta Holloway

Loleatta Holloway and producer Dan Hartman (“Instant Replay” ) bring to life one of the most influential disco tracks of all time: “Love Sensation”. From the album by the same name of 1980, this track has the power which was injected into Hartman’s “Relight My Fire” featuring Loleatta Holloway. A garage classic and one which makes disco music live on and on in a timeless effort unite soul and fusion into a stylish dance landmark.

I have taken the original album version to recreate a ReStructure Mix and give dance floors and mind another opportunity to bring this masterpiece a new stage. It uses the same element of Loleatta’s voice to relay the powerful message of love and the undying disco beat. One of my all-time favorites and one that never lets up!

ReStructure Mix Update (3/5/16) “Savin’ Myself” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eria Fachin

ReStructure Mix Update (3/5/16) “Savin’ Myself” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eria Fachin
Eria Fachin is a Canadian high energy artist with a big dance floor hit produced by Vincent Degiorgio. “Savin’ Myself” was an instant classic in the high energy community and became one of the memorable tracks of 1986. A melodic song of heartbreak and the rejection of an ex-lover wanting to return to Eria who has since moved on. It is an outline for the healing of heart and the satisfaction of rejecting inevitable emotion pain. The production is a nice touch of the light keyboards and rolling bass laying a nice stage for Eria’s convincing vocal performance. It is one that upon hearing it for the first time knew it would impact both ears and feet on my dance floor.

I have taken the domestic 12” vocal and instrumental versions on Critique Records and reworked it into a ReStructure Mix giving the basics of the song a new edge. More percussion effects are added for a bit of emphasizing the energy and some play with pieces of the chorus lyrics. More of the synthesizer parts are pumped here to bring it more of a dub and underground feel.