Tuesday, December 27, 2011

“Theme from “E.T, (The Extra Terrestrial)” by Denny Randell And Rockophonic Orchestra – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Theme from “E.T, (The Extra Terrestrial)” by Denny Randell And Rockophonic Orchestra – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Denny Randell is a producer and arranger known for his work with artists Terri De Sario, Charlie Calello Orchestra, Odyssey and The Regal Dewy. He brings to life in this 12” single from 1982 John Williams’ magical theme from “E.T. (The Extra Terrestrial)” and adds his own disco touch.

I have taken the 12” version of Randell’s disco version and paired it with scenes from the film. “E.T. (The Extra Terrestrial)” and attempted to bring the single and film together for a glimpse back on the wonderful emotions and feeling they create.

The film was directed by Steven Spielberg

Featuring scenes from “E.T. (The Extra Terrestrial)” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

Thursday, December 22, 2011

“Just Can’t Help Believing” by Boys Town Gang – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Just Can’t Help Believing” by Boys Town Gang – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Boys Town Gang is a San Francisco based disco group founded and produced by the late Bill Motley. The first album release featured the fabulous Cynthia Manley creating her rendition of Diana Ross classics “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Remember Me” as a medley which brought the dance community alive again for more years of dancing and hunger for disco music.

“Just Can’t Help Believing” is a cover of the 1970 B.J. Thomas classic ballad –done in the sweet high energy style that Motley was so wonderful to build. The album featured vocals by Jackson Moore and once again answered to the disco connoisseurs dream.

I have taken the song along with the 1977 Neil Simon comedy/romance film, “The Goodbye Girl” starring Richard Dreyfuss and Marsha Mason – a story that focuses on the romance between a struggling actor and a heartbroken dancer who can only look forward to “goodbyes” in relationships thanks to her past. It works well with the heart strings and romance and gives the disco track a new identity.

The film was directed by Herbert Ross

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

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

"Pop Pop Shoo Wah" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Erotic Drum Band

"Pop Pop Shoo Wah" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Erotic Drum Band

Erotic Drum Band is a disco concept group from Peter Di Milo (Champagne Explosion, Ann Joy, Nightlife Unlimited, Pussycats, Sugar Band Express) which represented the maturity of the disco sound in the late 70s. Their first LP "Plug Me To Death" is one of the most played albums I can remember during the period for hardcore and progressive clubs.

"Touch Me Where It's Hot" is the second project from 1980 and features the first single release "Pop Pop Shoo Wah" - a bouncy and catchy disco number. It has the lighthearted and energy of a catch-phrase that lifts any ones spirits higher on the dance floor.

I have ReStructured the 12" version and have introduced the fun with more of the synthesizer tracks that pour excitement onto the beats. There are some new breaks and points of the song to give a new meaning to "pop-pop-shoo-wah"!

Dedicated to Mr. Di Milo in thanks for his wonderful music and dedication to disco music.

You may find Peter Di Milo at: http://www.peterdimilorecords.com/

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

“The Heart To Break The Heart” by France Joli – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“The Heart To Break The Heart” by France Joli – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

France Joli burst upon the disco scene in 1979 with her first hit “Come To Me” – with this classic a destined disco chanteuse with a wonderful stature gave dance floors emotion and disco-grooves. Her second LP titled “Tonight” released in 1980 contained another powerhouse dance hall track titled “The Heart To Break The Heart” – a formula similar to her prior bit hit, yet a story all its own.

I have taken “The Heart To Break The Heart” and the 1949 film “The Heiress” starring Olivia de Havilland and Montgomery Clift – the story of a naïve woman who falls for a handsome young man who is a fortune hunter. The story follows an intricate and satisfying end for our heroine and also supplies the heartache and resolution of our disco story.

Directed by William Wyler

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

"I'm Not In Love / Girl, You're In Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Scherrie Payne

"I'm Not In Love / Girl, You're In Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Scherrie Payne

Scherrie Payne (sister of Freda Payne) became a member of The Supremes in 1973 - 1977 - a powerhouse diva. Her solo career also took shape in the late 70s, 80s and presently with many high energy productions with disco master, Rick Gianatos.

Her 1982 single "Girl, You're In Love/I'm Not In Love" is a fabulous cover of 10cc's classic ballad - done with a touch of diva. This production from Rick Gianatos is a mild-disco rendition during the early 80s and makes the magic of disco live all over again.

I have restructured the US 12" single using both the vocal and dub to recreate a new feeling for Scherrie's wonderful approach to this song. It was always a favorite and now it remains one that I loved bringing alive again.

Dedicated to Lindsay and Nicholas for their support and great energy!

Monday, December 19, 2011

"D.I.S.C.O." - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ottawan

"D.I.S.C.O." - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ottawan

Ottawan is a disco group produced by Daniel Vangarde (Gibson Brothers, Who's Who) during the big disco boom of the late 70s. Consisting of vocalists from Pam and Pat (a group formed following the success of Ottawan).

'D.I.S.C.O." is now a disc jockey standard used at weddings, and family events since it has that uplifting and "sing-a-long" feel. It is silly at times but has that flavor to make disco music fun and popular among those looking for a good time on the dance floor.

I have ReStructured the original import 12" single on Carerre and create a few more breaks and fun-moments to raise the letters once again: D.I.S.C.O.

Dedicated to my English Bulldog: "Disco" - who is everything disco!

Sunday, December 11, 2011

“Havah Nagilah” by Azoto – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Havah Nagilah” by Azoto – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Azoto released their first disco LP in 1979 titled “Music Makers Ltd” – this was the brainchild of Italian disco producer and arranger, Celso Valli (Tantra, Passengers and Nuggets). Many of the tracks have the essence of Valli’s genius of weaving sequencers, keyboards along with strings and disco bass and beats – it was one of the forerunners in Italo-disco in its early stages.

“Havah Nagilah” is an electronic disco version from the project which is haunting and mysterious with this dance arrangement – it is a Hebrew folk song and means “Let Us Rejoice”. The disco-fication of the song is a nice touch from Valli and proves his ability to create dreamy and strong bass-tracks for the dance floor.

I have taken the 1971 film “Fiddler On The Roof” and blended dance sequences and some of the drama from the story of a Jewish family living in the town of Anatevka in Tsarist Russia in 1905.

The film was directed by Norman Jewison

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

Friday, December 9, 2011

"Au Revior" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Noel

"Au Revior" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Noel

Noel is an artists introduced with an LP titled "Dancing Is Dangerous" - produced by Ron Mael and Russel Mael of the brothers band, Sparks. This session was truly influenced by their own LP "#1 In Heaven" - produced by Giorgio Moroder.

"Au Revoir" is a track from the segued album and is one of my favorite cuts from the album - even though it runs at 3:10. I have always played the song using 2 pieces of vinyl to extend for either a dreamy early morning set or lounge sets.

I have ReStructured the short LP version and chopped the song into parts and also created loops and breaks to extend this nice piece of jazz-like dreaminess.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

"Menhungry" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Maxine Dee

"Menhungry" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Maxine Dee

Maxine Dee released her single from Germany, "Menhungry" in 1983 - produced by J.P. Garattoni. It was one of the electro-disco tracks of this period which returned to the heavy synthesized feel of Giorgio Moroder-ish disco arrangement. The premise of the original mix was a flowing 3 part sequencer feel which gave Maxine a chance to admit her weakness: "men".

I have take the original 12" on Disc-O-12, both the "Computer Club Mix" and the "Instrumental Dub Mix" to create a blend of these piece of the formula and weave a whole new experience.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

"Take A Chance" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bizzy & Co

"Take A Chance" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bizzy & Co

Bizzy & Co is Fabrizio Gatto - an Italian producer who also gave us Italo-disco classics by Doctor's Cat, Martinelli, Cat Gang, Topo & Roby and Raggio Di Luna. His synthesizer sound in the early 80s is an excellent blend of high energy and a hypnotic dance sound.

"Take A Chance" is a single released in 1982 and along with writer/musician/producer Tony Carrasco (Klein and MBO) make this upbeat and fun tag-along track allot of fun to move and celebrate to.

I have ReStructured the Import 12" on DeeJay Records to give it a "spacious" mix and accentuate on some of the percussive drums and effects.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

"You Can" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madleen Kane

"You Can" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madleen Kane

Madleen Kane is one of disco music's sexiest artists ever! Her first LP "Rough Diamond" has a stamp of the sultry sound of disco without compromising on rhythm and pulsating charm. Her fourth LP was more than a welcome sight in 1981 - it was a production by disco extraordinaire, Giorgio Moroder that also created a new vehicle for Moroder's mature production for the 80s.

"You Can" was the first release from the project and one of the more level tracks expected from both Moroder and Kane's sensual appeal. It is a smooth and elegant love song that is as fitting as "Rough Diamond".

I have ReStructured the LP version including the lovely keyboard intro - pitching it to the song's blasting sexy feeling. It is intended to give the song a new splash of disco perfume and another opportunity to give Madleen a chance to prove her quote from 1979, "People fall in love in discotheques. Lixstening to disco music!"

This mix is for you Ms. Madleen Kane!

Monday, December 5, 2011

"Girls Are Back In Town" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Risque

"Girls Are Back In Town" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Risque

Risque is Yvonne van Spluteren (later replaced by Denise van der Hek), Donna Baron, Ingrid de Goede and Irene van der Hoeven a Dutch girl-group with a hypnotic sound and feel. Their first single "Girls Are Back In Town" is an appropriate synthesized disco track with the sound of the early 80s and the transition from orchestrated disco music to the simplified keyboard and sequencer arrangements.

I have taken the Casey Jones 12" remix on Importe 12 and have ReStructured it - as it is one of my favorite tracks from the period. It is winding and at times roaring and I have looped and extended a few moments to give it another chance to haunt your feet!

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

"Don't Turn Your Back On Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eloise Whitaker

"Don't Turn Your Back On Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eloise Whitaker

Eloise Whitaker is an artist produced by Laurin Rinder and W. Michael Lewis in the early 80s - featured on the new dance label Destiny Records along with Butterfly exec A.J. Cervantes.
"Don't Turn Your Back On Love" is one of the powerhouse dance tracks on the time with the energy and soulful feeling of a diva-anthem! This ReStructure Mix gives the vital parts of the original 12" single a play once again - in high gear!
Dedicated to Lindsay and Nicholas! Go get it!

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

"Change" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Zulema

"Change" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Zulema

Zulema Cusseaux began with a trio called Five Crystals and then later worked with Van McCoy with Faith, Hope and Charity. She also became a studio group titled Zalmac in the early 80s.

Her 1978 LP "Z-licious" is the brand of 70s funk, soul and disco rolled into a nice package. "Change" is the single from the LP which gained a nice repetation for being the solo-sound of Zulema - a roaring track with question of judgement and damnation - neither of which I foster or believe in. But it is a great song and the fictitious theme makes great fun for a dance floor motion.

I have ReStructured the 12" single and added a few new curves and turns to make the song new and a bit more exciting.

Thanks to Lindsay A. Smith and Nicholas J. Bunning, once again for influencing this ReStructure Mix - it's for you and with lots of good nurturing energy! No damnation! :)

Monday, November 21, 2011

"Baby Come and Get It" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pointer Sisters

"Baby Come and Get It" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pointer Sisters

Pointer Sister became the breaking of pop-high energy and dance music in the early 80s. Their album "Break Out" produced by Richard Perry was just that for these soulful divas.

"Baby Come and Get It" was the third 12" release from the project and one the sexiest! It has some of the most intense drums and synth effects.

I have taken the 12" single and ReStructured the song into an extended dub-like mechanical mix which is meant for the late nights or early morning moments to deepen the effect of the sensual and rhythmic sound.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

“I Have A Destiny” by Denise Mc Cann – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“I Have A Destiny” by Denise Mc Cann – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Denise Mc Cann released her second album in 1979 titled “I Have A Destiny” which showcased the disco concept of the late seventies as well as Denise’s unique vocal. The project was produced by Guy Sobell.

I have taken the title track and mixed the visuals from the Moly Shannon character Mary Katherine Gallagher from SNL in “Superstar – Dare To Dream” – the story of an aspiring and nerdy Catholic schoolgirl who is constantly dreaming of stardom takes the disco track and gives it a face.

The film was directed by Bruce McCulloch

Featuring scenes from “Superstar – Dare To Dream” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

"Whatcha Gonna Do About It" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rozalin Woods

"Whatcha Gonna Do About It" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rozalin Woods

Rozalin Woods is a disco artist who released one album during the height of the disco era and then was never heard from again in the music industry. The album was "Flashback" and it was produced by Ed Martinez (Papa John Creach, N.E. Philly Band).

The album had three singles: "Flashback", "Go Shake Yourself" and "Whatcha Gonna Do About It" (written by Russ Ballard) - each with the full-potential and sound of the disco period. Rozalin's always reminded me of a sweet-Candi Staton-like feel.

I have taken the 12" version of "Whatcha Gonna Do About It" along with the instrumental and created a new arrangement with several new breakdowns. The song has a very strong emotion feeling to it and has always been one of the likable songs of the hardcore female disco diva followers.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

“Armed and Extremely Dangerous” by First Choice – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Armed and Extremely Dangerous” by First Choice – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

First Choice is Rochelle Fleming, Joyce Jones and Annette Guest – originally known as The Debonettes. Their first album in 1973 titled “Armed and Extremely Dangerous” contained the title cut that is now a disco classic. The project was produced by Norman Harris and Stan Watson.

I have taken the title track and matched it with the action and romance between our lead characters in “Bonnie& Clyde” from 1967 and stars Warren Beatty (who also produced) and Faye Dunaway. I have outlined the songs caution along with the notoriously violent life of the infamous couple.

The film was directed by Arthur Penn

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Dan Butler of San Diego –who always brought this song to life for me

"Solitaire" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Branigan

"Solitaire" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Branigan

Laura Branigan is one of the voices of the 80s that is instantly recognizable. Her dance classic "Gloria" is one of the most powerful dance songs ever recorded. This gave Laura a career in music that moved throughout the 80s and early 90s with several big ballads and a many dance singles.

"Solitaire" is from her second LP titled "Branigan 2" which took dance floors to another phase of pop dance and influenced a whole new phase of high energy dance music as well as the powerful femme vocal. Produced by Jack White

I have taken the 12" version of the track and worked to enhance the performance by Laura by adding new extended bridges and effects to make the already dramatic phase even more climatic - and eventually a dreamy wind-down.

Dedicated to the wonderful energy of Ms. Branigan who sadly passed way too young in 2004

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

“My #1 Request” by Destination – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“My #1 Request” by Destination – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Destination is Danny Lugo, Kathleen Bradley and Lovechyle Theus – and Mr. Elton Farokh Ahi producing arranging and playing several instruments on this session. It is one of the most incredible disco arrangements of the 70s.

I have taken the “Departure – My #1 Request” segment which include “Put It Where You Want It” and “Fantasy From Mortisha to Gomez Adams” pieces and blended the suite with the 1991 black comedy “The Adams Family” starring Anjelica Houston, Raul Julia and Christina Ricci. The movie version of the television show which ran from 1964 – 1966 is a hilarious affair.

I have paired up a few surprises to keep the Destination track alive and give it a whole new meaning!

The film was directed by Barry Sonnerfeld

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

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