Friday, May 29, 2020
REISSUE: “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mighty Pope
REISSUE: “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mighty Pope Mighty Pope (Earl Heedram) is a Jamaican-Canadian singer who began his recording career in 1970 and in 1979 the disco community was fortunate enough to receive a project from this talent vocalist and also the best of the Canadian disco team: John Driscol, Gino Soccio and Denis Le Page. Released on Ray Caviano’s disco label RFC, this album hit at the peak of disco fever. The tracks echoed more of the work from both Soccio and Driscol and similar to recent dance projects from their magic. Denis Le Page of Lime fame is also added here programming synthesizers as another great touch from the Canadian line-up. Mighty Pope’s cover of Iron Butterfly’s “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” is one of the songs which immediately caught my curiosity since the realm of one-sided/extended disco recordings were most likely influenced by the original release of Iron Butterfly’s classic, which was a side long rock movement. The eerie feel of the song was a perfect spot for disco music to inject its cause. I have taken the LP version of “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” and also pieces of the original rock classic to blend a ReStructure Mix paying tribute to both. A build on the intro is intended to relay the familiar edge of what I had experienced in dance music from the 70s and the psychedelic rock scene of the 60s. Rearranging each part of the disco version is placed for the outcome of the emotion and lasting experience.
REISSUE: “Walking In The Neon” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Peter Richard
REISSUE: “Walking In The Neon” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Peter Richard Peter Richard is an Italo-disco artist with one of the 80s most hypnotic and experimental pieces of its time. The project is arranged by Celso Valli who is responsible for many classic Italian dance tracks from Tantra, VISA, Lama and Azoto. This one weaves a sci-fi feel with a deep bass loop which brings to mind the genius of Giorgio Moroder when placed in the electronic dance arena. Percussion is pounding out an ethereal space journey which takes place on the dance floor. A masterpiece from the Italo-disco catalogue. I have taken the 12” version of “Walking In The Neon” and recreated another trip into disco heaven. More percussion is lightly added to the underground feel of this track and of course it is extended to give the followers of such a long lasting high.
Thursday, May 28, 2020
ReStructure Mix Update (5/28/20) “Love Attack” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Amber
ReStructure Mix Update (5/28/20) “Love Attack” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Amber
Amber is a disco band from 1978 who recorded with The Deep South Dance Band on three 12” singles. “Love Attack” is from 1979 and outline disco music at its peak. The bass sequencers pumping the energy and the chorus girls leading the dance into an uplifting and melodic experience. It is the style that made disco music the adoring for many of the time. This one powers up with the concept of being taken over by and incontrollable urge on the dance floor and builds over and over and our chorus ignites. This one was an underground hit and follows the disco era to its finale. The production is by Carson Whittsett and M. Mullen and gives us that early high energy feel that rolls on and on.
I have taken the 12” version of “Love Attack” and re-edited the track into a new ReStructure Mix. I used the bass synths as a new foundation and added some percussion to give it more hi-end as well as energy. He chorus has been broken down into a new arrangement also.
PARTY GIRRLS - SISTERS ARE DOIN' IT!
PARTY GIRRLS - SISTERS ARE DOIN' IT!
“Moonlight Serenade” by Tuxedo Junction – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/bTtYzTRmtVc
"Tender Is The Night" by THP Orchestra - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/xyi2vszrpGk
“Begin The Beguine” by Johnny Mathis – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/3YFERf85Kgs
“Cherchez la Femme” by Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/c5U6SYbwrq8
"Dance Until You Drop" by Ritz - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/WaVrtDg0NZI
PLAYLIST
REISSUE: "Dance Until You Drop" by Ritz - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
REISSUE: "Dance Until You Drop" by Ritz -
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Ritz is Kofi Missah, Ruby James and Tony Jackson -- a disco trio who gave us one album titled "Puttin' On The Ritz" produced by Ken Gold. The album featured two dance floor hits: "Locomotion" and "Dance Until You Drop". The timing of this project may have prevented the group from gaining more popularity. The arrangements were a nice style of funk and disco. I have taken the track "Dance Until You Drop" and blended it with the 1969 drama, "They Shoot Horses Don't They"" starring Jane Fonda and Michael Sarrazin. The film centers around a Depression-era dance marathon and the drama of the contestant participating and the physical draining of this knock down-drag out contest. It plays out with the title and mild atmospheric sound of this disco single. The film was directed by Sydney Pollack Featuring scenes from "They Shoot Horses Don't They?" -- RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons
REISSUE: “Cherchez la Femme” by Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
REISSUE: “Cherchez la Femme” by Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band is a break through disco project from 1976 which took the big band sound of Cab Calloway and blended it with a disco beat. The first album was a great success in introducing a new formula to dance floors in a complete package. “Cherchez la Femme” was a radio and club hit and featured Ms. Cory Daye in the vocal spotlight and alluring many new fans to this style and also a solo album released in 1979. I have taken scenes from the 1973 comedy “Paper Moon” from Peter Bogdanovich and starring Ryan O’Neal, Madeline Kahn and Tatum O’Neal to emphasize a whole new drama for Ryan as he travels through the great depression – finding “la femme”. It plays out in bits and pieces as Cory weaves the well-known disco tale with a new twist. My edit focuses on Madeline’s fabulous campy portrayal of this character. The film was directed by Peter Bogdanovich Featuring scenes from “Paper Moon” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons
REISSUE: “Begin The Beguine” by Johnny Mathis – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
REISSUE: “Begin The Beguine” by Johnny Mathis – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Johnny Mathis is a voice recognizable in 50s and 60s love songs. One of the male vocalists with a sound that brings many emotions to the heart and soul. Johnny’s 1979 album “The Best Days of My Life” follow the trend for many artists of the time by entering the disco arena bringing his talent using his style. The project was produced by Jack Gold and featured a cover of Cole Porter’s classic piece “Begin The Beguine”. A 12” single did very well with clubs featuring the glorious disco arrangement in a tradition that brings the feel of energy and the fantasy of the disco era. I have taken the album version of “Begin The Beguine” and created a Disco Video Mix with scenes from the 2004 musical portrait of songwriter Cole Porter – “De-Lovely”. The wonderful biopic plays out with the hypnotic feel of the classic song. The film stars Kevin Kline and Ashley Judd and much of the start and closing of the romance and life of the unique relationship are the focus. The film was directed by Irwin Winkler Featuring scenes from “De-Lovely” – 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: “Moonlight Serenade” by Tuxedo Junction – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
REISSUE: “Moonlight Serenade” by Tuxedo Junction – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Tuxedo Junction is a disco group created by W. Michael Lewis and Laurin Rinder – who are also known for work with their outstanding disco bands El Coco, In Search of Orchestra, Le Pamplemousse, Saint Tropez and Sweet Potato Pie. Tuxedo Junction is a studio production from A.J. Cervantes of disco label Butterfly Records and a disco tribute to big-bands and the music of its conductors like Glenn Miller. “Moonlight Serenade” comes from Glenn Miller’s 1939 American big-band sound. I have taken the disco cover from Tuxedo Junction and paired it with the 1974 romantic drama film, “The Great Gatsby” – based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel. The film stars Robert Redford, Mia Farrow, Bruce Dern and Sam Waterson. I have used much of the footage of the lovely Mia Farrow and the sequences of the affairs of the idle rich. The film was directed by Jack Clayton Featuring scenes from “The Great Gatsby” – RENT THE DVD! Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera Produced by Ken Emmons
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
ReStructure Mix Update (5/27/20) “On The Road To Mandalay” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Harlow
ReStructure Mix Update (5/27/20) “On The Road To Mandalay” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Harlow
Harlow is a Canadian disco project from producers Mike Alyanak, Steve Alexander and Bertch Alyanak – vocals are provided by Joanne Perica, Johanna Vanderkley and Linda Hanchar. Their big club hit “Take Off” from 1981 was a high energy baby for dance floors and where club music was headed in the early 80’s. It was a touch of the disco fantasy with the chorus girls leading the way. :”On The Road To Mandalay” is their 1983elease from their “At Midnight” album. This one as a much an adventure for Harlow once again taking us on a spiritual adventure into a place of calm and serene. It is another piece that accentuates the vibe of true disco in a crossover mode.
I have taken the 12” version of “On The Road To Mandalay” and reworked the path for this ReStructure Mix. The track is extended on the breaks and instrumental parts to give it me of that escape on the dance floor feel.
PRELUDE TO THE DANCE - UNFORGETTABLE GROOVES
PRELUDE TO THE DANCE - UNFORGETTABLE GROOVES
“On A Journey (I Sing The Funk Electric)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Elektrik Funk - https://youtu.be/jmhxiCD96hw
“Disco Power” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – U.N. - https://youtu.be/qscwtZn7fQg
"I'm A Man" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Macho - https://youtu.be/ZckUdAdvRjY
“Your Good Lovin’” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – France Joli - https://youtu.be/42k2udtkLf4
“In The Middle” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Unlimited Touch - https://youtu.be/oct1P41kREA
(PLAYLIST)
REISSUE: “In The Middle” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Unlimited Touch
REISSUE: “In The Middle” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Unlimited Touch Unlimited Touch is one of the New York Funk bands during the early 80’s from the Prelude Records label. Produced by Raymond Reid and William Anderson formerly of the group Crown Heights Affair. This ensemble is a big hit on the dance floors during the formulation and peak of this genre of dance music which focused on a soulful edge with more electro-funk elements. “In The Middle” is a single that was actually side-b of their big hit “I Hear Music In The Streets” from 1980. The lead vocal by Audrey Wheeler is the force behind this number and plays out with passion and funk. One of my favorites of the period and a lasting impression of New York Funk. I have taken the 12” version of “In The Middle” and created a new ReStructure Mix taking the vocals into a deep dive of a dub-like environment. I have added a deep bass beat and more of the existing percussion to give this monster more juice.
REISSUE: “Your Good Lovin’” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – France Joli
REISSUE: “Your Good Lovin’” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – France Joli France Joli is the one disco music’s most exciting voices. Her big dance hit “Come To Me” from 1979 gave the closing of the disco era a crescendo. Her 1980 album “Now!” and her third was a turn for France to the sound which her label, Prelude Records was creating for the 80s – New York Funk. The production by Ray Reid and William Anderson (Crown Heights Affair) gave us an opportunity to hear France and her lovely vocals in a funky setting. “Your Good Lovin’” is the second single from the project following “Gonna Get Over You”. It is another great love song which gives us some slick keyboards and funk beats and was produced by Darryl Payne and Eric Matthew (Sharon Redd. Gary’s Gang) and features an arrangement by Giuliano Salerni (Ultimate, Strange Affair, Bonnie Boyer). I have taken the original album version and recreated a ReStructure Mix using the loop edits for a new approach. I have extended it for more of France’s outstanding performance and of course the backing vocals of Fonzi Thornton and Dolette McDonald. A funk fest made in New York and branded the same!
REISSUE: "I'm A Man" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Macho
REISSUE: "I'm A Man" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Macho "I'm A Man" brought a whole new dimension to disco music. It was apart of the Jacques Fred Petrus sound which Prelude Records distributed in the US and Goody Music worked internationally. The synthetic tracks introduced a whole new concept to dance floors across the country. It was an exciting time. With the LP version clocking in a 17:45 minutes this mix was another experiment in "how much can you take?" The answer is now history. The original mix by Tom Savarese is an ingenious display of how disco music blossomed into an electronic symphony of sounds. My ReStructure mix is dedicated to Tom and his part is disco history.
REISSUE: “Disco Power” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – U.N.
REISSUE: “Disco Power” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – U.N. U.N. is a disco project from producer Tony Green who also delivered classic by France Joli, Freddie James, Norma Lewis, Geraldine Hunt, Caroline Bernier and many early disco and high energy projects. This production features the lead vocals of Goldie Alexander (“Show You My Love”) and backing are The Sweethearts of Sigma (Barbra Ingram, Carla Benson and Evette Benton). “Disco Power” is the first release and pulls a punch with its tribute to the music of the time which created a unity and lasting feeling of good energy and celebration. This one is the essence of the energy which disco music became from the mid and late 70s. I have taken the album version of “Disco Power” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix which adds more of the riffs in places where it pumps more energy out of this geyser of disco percussion, handclaps and bass. It is a tribute to Tony Green and Denis Le Page who arranged this powerhouse album.
REISSUE: “On A Journey (I Sing The Funk Electric)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Elektrik Funk
REISSUE: “On A Journey (I Sing The Funk Electric)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Elektrik Funk Elektrik Funk is an electronic-garage project from producers, Darryl Payne and Eric Matthew – the boys who also gave us Sharon Redd, Sinnamon, Eazy, Gary’s Gang, Miles Watson and many projects in the early and late 80s. This strange edged track introduced a soulful-garage vocal with an unusual theme aimed at traveling through a groove with the mind. A big hit for my club at the time since the instrumental provide a long mix alternative or longer intro to the funk-driven vocal. I have created a ReStructure Mix here with a piece added from the “Fame” soundtrack which seems obvious why – yet I worked to take the keyboards and separate some of the punchiest segments out. It has the feel of a funk set – yet the underground sound of an early morning gem. This is a new journey – one I hope you can feel in your mind and feet!
Tuesday, May 26, 2020
ReStructure Mix Update (5/26/20) “You Know I Like It” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Nick Straker Band
ReStructure Mix Update (5/26/20) “You Know I Like It” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Nick Straker Band
Nick Straker Band is one of the groups that helped to move dance music into the 80’s with their diverse delivery of dance music. Their 1980 dance track “Leaving On The Midnight Train” is a venture into the disco/high energy sound and following were a few jazz-infused tracks which gave them their signature sound. “A Little Bit Of Jazz” and “A Walk In The Park” from 1979 were both club favorites and helped to move the dance sound into a new era of 80’s disco music. “You Know I Like It” is a single from 1983 which gained allot of attention from the jocks who were playing more of the British jazz sound that allowed a lower BPM funk style. This one has that shinny effervescent sound which disco music was known for and made Nick Straker another fond choice for club music lovers.
I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of ”You Know I Like It” and moved to create a new element for the chants and rhythm. There is a longer intro with some new looping effects to give this one more magnetism.
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