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Stay Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Caprice
Jacques Fred Petrus
was responsible for producing projects which were essential
to disco music and it's growth during the late 70's. Very
little is known about this project titled Caprice which he
produced in 1980. The compositions and arrangements were done
by Candelario Sanchez.
It was released on Goody Music Records
as an Italian Import. The compositions have the last touch
of Euro-disco from this period. It was a time where arrangements
with actual players was becoming a bit extinct in disco music.
This may have been due to the popularity dwelling down and
the funds for recording were limited to musicians and left
many keyboards as the last option.
"Stay Tonight" is a track from
this album which is about 4 minutes on the LP and featured
with no intro to mix into. I always favored this cut because
of the melodic chorus and the vocal (which is unknown) that
always reminded me of Vi Ann from Paradise Express.
It is a great song with some elements that
are unforgettable. I have taken a chance to create a whole
new base for the song with a pumping synthesizer being the
foundation and ambient layer below the track.
This is a shot for myself since the song
I find beautiful and I felt needed to be revived and also
the project not lost forever.
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I'll Play The Fool - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dr. Buzzard's
Original Savannah Band
Sandy Linzer (Odyssey, Cory Daye, Teresa,
T.S. Monk) produced this project in 1976 - and it is hailed
as one of the first and top productions in it's class. There
are many familiar faces in this band - Don Armando ("Deputy
Of Love"), Charlie Calello, August Darnell, and Cory
Daye on vocals.
My first experience with this band was
the single, "Cherchez La Femme/C'est Si Bon" at
the age of 15 - it was not only one of the most exciting songs
I was hearing constantly on the radio but also my first recollection
of disco music becoming more sought after.
I have taken the track, "I'll Play
The Fool" and added a few new elements of beats and percussion
to break and extend the track a bit more. Subtle pieces of
clap add a bit more discotheque atmosphere.
Dedicated to Anthony Gioffre for his sharing
his Studio 54 experience and friendship with me.
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I'm Gonna Get Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jade
(alias Nancy Martin)
Jade had a hit with Im
Gonna Get Your Love in 1982 she was actually
Nancy Martin who was later Nancy Martinez. This track was
produced by Marc Racine and Danny Taillon.
The original mix is ReStructured here to
extend synth elements of this flowing song. Thanks to Nancys
soft and alluring vocals this song is a dance classic.
I dedicate this mix to Randy in Palm Springs
thanks for being so supportive and for asking for a
new mix of this great dance number.
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Magic Fly - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kebekelektrik
This extraordinary project from 1977 was
produced by Pat Deserio and featured Gino Soccio on keyboards,
Larry Washington on percussion and assistance by Tony Green.
Keyboards are featured in this development
period for disco music - the arrangements and compositions
are forerunners of electronic disco music becoming mature.
"Magic Fly" was the first single released in 1977.
I have taken the track into a ReStructure Mix which patterns
most of the percussion elements and pounding synthesizers.
The project also featured sought after
tracks, "Bolero", "Mirage" and the classic
piece, "War Dance".
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Heatstroke - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Man Parrish
Man Parrish hit the clubs in 1982
with his LP, "Man Parrish" which included his hit,
"Hip Hop Be Bop" and "Heatstroke". During
this time a resurgence of a new techno-charge dance music
was being formulated and perfected. "Heatstroke"
being a big lead-in to this period. Produced by Man Parrish
and Raul A. Rodriguez
The track is reminiscent of a Giorgio Moroder
track with it's futuristic vocoder elements - but Man Parrish
takes the energy to whole new level. He has marked a time
where technology and dance music began their longtime relationship.
I have taken "Heatstroke" and
added a few new breakdowns and playful edits along the way
in this ReStructure Mix - an homage to Mr. Parrish.
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Shoulda Gone Dancin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - High
Inergy
High Inergy hit
the scene in 1977 with their Gordy LP, "Turnin' On"
- this project was probably one of the earliest recollections
of disco with a soulful touch. "You Can't Turn Me Off
(In The Middle Of Turning Me On)" was the first big hit
from the album - but there was more. If you listen to tracks
form the first LP, "Love Is All You Need" you will
recognize a soulful yet danceful sound that was beginning
a dance revolution.
Their 1979 LP, "Shoulda Gone Dancin'"
was their step into the discotheques with no holding back.
It s a real cooker and was always at the top of my list during
it's release. Produced by Donnell Jones
I have ReStructured the track using
the instrumental track, which I try not to do - but the strings
on the chorus were just too irresistible. This song is one
of the catchiest and one of the most pop-soul dance hits during
the disco rein.
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Bridge Over Troubled Water - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix
- Linda Clifford
Linda Clifford has always been one of the
finest of performers. To have her talent displayed in disco
music is a gift for dance enthusiasts everywhere. From her
productions with Mr. Curtis Mayfield and throughout her current
house and club releases you can always feel Linda's best is
always given.
"Bridge Over Troubled Water"
was a cover in which Linda took her soulful appeal and made
it work well over a pulsing arrangement. This track from her
"Let Me Be Your Woman" double LP - produced by Gil
Askey and mixed by Jimmy Simpson.
I have taken Linda's rendition and placed
a few more breakdowns throughout her vocal and used her own
power to create a new formation for this disco gem.
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In Love With Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich
Machine
The 1978 LP by
Munich Machine titled "A Whiter Shade Of Pale" was
the follow up to the premiere LP featuring "Get On The
Funk Train" - this project was Giorgio Moroder's innovative
style wrapped into several sounds.
"In Love With Love" was a track
that I dreamed of taking into a new realm with it's own source
of electronic pulses and create a more intricate piece. Using
some synthetic percussion and Moroder's original feel I have
reworked the track for a new ReStructure Mix.
Hardcore Moroder fans will realize that
this track was left off of the album jacket for some unknown
reason, yet included on the vinyl. This is now corrected and
placing this fabulous track on it's own.
Dedicated to Giorgio Moroder for continuing
to make innovation a thing of the past and even now - the
present.
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You're A Winner - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Redd
Disco divas have
entertained us throughout the years. Helping us to make life
easier by looking at our relationships on the lighter side,
the painful side and sometimes helping us to move on. That
is the role of a "diva" - to influence us.
Sharon Redd (1945 - 1992) is my all-time
muse of both spirit and dance. The opportunity to meet this
incredible soul is one of the highlights of my life. After
many years of idolizing her music and voice it was indeed
a great opportunity to learn more about the feeling behind
the music and words she sang about.
"You're A Winner" was a song
that I remember lifting me at one a most needed time of my
life - being alone in a new city. This song made my life brighter
making me believe, "I was a 'winner'"! Now taking
the song into careful and loving hands I ReStructure Sharon's
classic track that is still uplifting in many ways.
Ms. Redd deserves all of the accolades
that she receives everywhere - she is a great soul and lives
on even today with her music and energy.
Please check out Sharon's videos made here
in San Diego at YouTube by CLICKING
HERE
Take care and good energy to you all.
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Sunset People - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Bad Girls marked a new start
for Donna Summer in 1979 and even though it seemed
as though this were the last of her hardcore disco material
prior to her On The Radio double LP set, it is
with everything that change creates a new world for everyone.
Sunset People was probably
the most intense track from this double LP set and even though
it has been the focus of a Video Mix recently (CLICK
HERE to see) I have been driven to take this track and
dissect it for a new ReStructure Mix.
Donna gives a simple yet powerful performance
on this cut and even though it seems the song has been redone
over and over never seems to hit the spot as this original
track with her sensual vocals and Giorgio Moroders incredible
sequencer and keyboard performance.
ReStructure Mixes are not intended to be
the mix but just another as in the day
when I would hear music completely different each night and
in complete awe of a new sound all-together. I dedicate this
track to Ben Tobias (who is no longer with us) and the jock
that made my disco world a heaven with his beautiful
mixes and insight on playing disco music.
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Lady Bump - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Penny McClean
1975
marked on of the most memorable periods for what was once
called boogie music on AM Radio stations
it soon became disco music after the beat became more solidified.
Michael Kunze produced this solo LP by
Penny McLean who was known for her part in Silver Convention
and from what I understand many assisted in these productions.
As the spoken part of the song was actually done by Lucy Neale
(who was a part of Donna Summer and Giorgios backup
ensembles) and for whatever the facts a big group of Munich
artists and producers played a big part in discos formulation.
I have taken the classic, Lady Bump
and created more of a Saturday night ReStructure Mix using
the drums and some of the fabulous vocals camp tracks! Keep
on bumpin! This is just what the doctor ordered
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One Of A Kind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
From the "Live
And More" double record set Donna Summer proved that
her music was heart-felt. "One Of A Kind" was a
piece from the "MacArthur Park" Medley that never
did get the honor to be set aside from the medley on it's
own fabulous right. It is a wonderful love song with some
of Donna's most incredible vocals.
This close to 9 minute ReStructure pulls
those serious and funky keyboards out along with the horns
to give the song a new make-up. This one is a another personal
favorite which makes any Donna Summer fan recognize that the
music has always been the reason why.
Special thanks to Keith Hall in Atlanta
for giving me the in site to take this one into the arena.
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Anytime Or Place - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Azoto
Dance music has
always progressed with new musicians and producers with a
background of various styles. Celso Valli began with a studio
group titled, Lucrethia And The Azoto 14,008 in 1978
soon after finding his style of disco he unleashed Azoto as
another band effort. This brought forth the LP, Disco
Fizz. This LP was one of the finest import (to the US)
projects to date.
Anytime Or Place is the single
which received the most play from this selection and well
deserved. The cut contains variation of Euro-disco with splashes
of Greek touches and wonderful innovative synthesizer tracks.
The song seems to become shorter as you grow fonder of the
light and sharp arrangement.
I have taken the track into a whole new
light with more of the drops and bass tracks adding new percussion
to give a lift.
Thank you, Kerim for requesting a ReStructure
for Azotos Anytime Or Place and also sharing
your wonderful insight and music.
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Do You Love Me? - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patti Austin
Patti Austin created
quite a stir along with the production of Quincy Jones in
1981 with the LP, Every Home Should Have One.
The first dance single to breakout onto the clubs was, Do
You Love Me?
This track was my favorite dance song during
this time. With Pattis incredible vocal and along with
Quincys outstanding musical genius, this song was an
anthem long before they were considered. It is beautifully
recorded dance track.
I have revived the music with more looping
and repeat of those incredible rhythm guitars (Eric Gale and
Steve Lukather) and soft keyboards (Greg Phillinganes
husband to Penny Ford who is Sharon Redds sister).
This track smoked from day one and even today sound ominous
and just as powerful.
The 80s may have produced a great
track that can even today be as fantastic!
Dedicated to Rick Ashmun for continuing
to bring the 80's dance music scene into view.
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I Wanna Funk With You Tonite - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix
- Giorgio
Giorgio Moroder recorded "Knights
In White Satin" in 1976 for Oasis Records (a subsidiary
of Casablanca Records) and formulated his Euro-disco sound
using his own Munich Machine ensemble. This sound was very
similar to many of his productions with Donna Summer, Roberta
Kelly and Munich Machine, but somehow managed to capture an
essence of it's own. It was producer, arranged, and mixed
by Giorgio Moroder
"I Wanna Funk With You Tonite"
was the last track from this project and is the topic of this
ReStructure - adding more of the funky bass keyboards as the
outline for the mix along with song new "thumping".
Thanks to Gary from Baytown, Texas for
requesting this ReStructure and this extended mix goes, his
way.
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Beat Of The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fever
This was the project
which may have encompassed all that was disco and everyone
who pulled disco throughout the 80's. Featuring Patrick Cowley
on synthesizers and Tip Wirrick (Sylvester) on guitar The
Waters (Clydene, Julian, and Maxine) on vocals and produced
by Dale Reed, Marty Blechman (Megatone Records) and John Hedges
(Lisa, Shawn Benson, etc.).
Complete and complex. This LP was a non-stop
dancing fest of energy and anything that was "disco".
The title cut, "Beat Of The Night" made everyones
top 10 list during this time. Released in 1979 on Fantasy
Records, this one was a powerhouse and remains one of the
top favorite among disco collectors.
I have put off many times ReStructuring
"Beat Of The Night" not sure how to polish this
one even more. Using the beat track alone to enhance the breaks
was my turn without wanting to damage the original sound.
Not too much but arranging and looping to keep this one in
it's somewhat original form.
Dedicated to DJ Joey Luciano, Kerim, Alan
and Rick from "Back To Disco" -long live "The
Beat"!
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Fantasy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bruni Pagan
Bruni Pagan was
an artist/vocalist when after hearing her voice you would
wonder why we never heard more from her. She sang in a chorus
for Herbie Mann and also disco artist, Venus Dodson and finally
a break recording her solo project titled, Just Bruni
in 1979 which was produced by Al Harrison and Janet Rosenblatt.
Fantasy was the first release
from the LP and created quite a response for Bruni. Although
she never recorded a follow-up project she did record another
dance single with Dave Valentin titled Loquita (Crazy
Lady) which had her signature vocal style.
This ReStructure is intended to break the
song down into further parts with more breaks and beats. It
is also great to hear Bruni working it, again!
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Nice 'N' Nasty - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Salsoul
Orchestra
Vince Montana,
Jr. was a ringmaster for this fantastic ensemble of musicians
creating New York's Disco Signature Sound - in 1976 the LP
"Nice 'N' Nasty" was released featuring the title
track along with "Good For The Soul" and "Don't
Beat Around The Bush" - this marking the compositions
for soul, orchestra and rhythms to merge into a dance craze.
"Nice 'N' Nasty" was another
track I over heard being played at "Back To Disco"
in Los Angeles this past week and it had all of my imagination
moving along for a ReStructure which I dedicate to Ricard
Aguirre for his hard work.
"The music cannot go anywhere without
you."
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The Hustle - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Van McCoy
It did have to
start somewhere. And it did in 1976 with one of the most wonderfully
arranged disco tracks - it was by Van McCoy and it is called,
"The Hustle".
I dedicate this track to Rick, Jorge, John
and Sandy of "Back To Disco" (www.backtodisco.com)
for their hospitality and kindness this past weekend on our
video shoot with Cynthia Manley. Their event was incredible.
If ever you want to return to the great
dance floor era of the 70's - check it out! During this evening
an entire dance floor of talented line dancers (some originals
from American Bandstand) joined in on a wonderful salute to
"The Hustle" with a disco-line dance that was exciting
and brings back the feeling of how disco music brings people
together and the fantastic energy it brings on.
To you, Rick and your staff - always!
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Cherchez Pas - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madleen Kane
Jean-Claude Friederich produced Madleen
Kane's third project titled, "Sounds Of Love" -
another great disco LP from the sexy and beautiful Swedish
songstress. The track "Cherchez Pas" was the first
single hit the clubs - it was like the rebirth of disco all
over again. The blaring horns and the nice touch of "wiry"
guitars created a wall of energy under Madleen's sultry vocals.
I can recollect that many people would approach my booth asking
if this were Deborah Harry singing the song.
"Cherchez Pas" in French means,
"To Be Without" - I believe she is singing about
how incomplete her life would be without that special someone
next to her in the discotheque.
The track is being divided in this ReStructure
to give it a more underground disco feel - with some exploding
to accent the power of these breaks.
Dedicated to the guys at Multiply whose
love for disco music is the best I have seen.
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A Dance Fantasy - Inspired by "Close Encounters of The
Third Kind" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Montana
Disco covers of
major films were quite a standard during the 70's - beginning
with Meco's cover of "Star Wars". Vincent Montana,
Jr. (billed as Montana) worked heavily during the disco era
creating a fantastic sound of full orchestrations with a disco
beat. Creating what would be known as the Euro-disco influence
on American disco artists.
"A Dance Fantasy" is a project
which takes movements from John Williams score from "Close
Encounters" and weaves a funky and beautiful medley.
I have focused more on the Sister Sledge vocals in the closing
of the original project with, "When You Wish Upon A Star"
and also the wonderful sitars of the "Mexican Desert"
theme. Adding just a touch of percussion to spice up the fluent
track.
This was requested by Vic from SHADES OF
SEVENTIES site - thank you, Vic.
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Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Night Force
This track is one
of the early 80's ever lasting high energy movers! Night Force
is a project produced by Bart Van De Laar (Discotheque's "Intro
Disco") and Francis Goya. This has always been a hardcore
dance emporium track. The latter part of the 70's utilized
synthesizers in a way that continued to perfect the dance
movement as it matured even more in the 80's.
I can always remember hearing this track
at clubs and events during the early 80's whenever the dance
floor was peaking and only at this time. Which shows you what
kind of a song it is. Watching people on the sidelines move
to it while the floor exploded was another memory, which is
why this song holds a special place in my dance history.
ReStructured to bring out those slamming
synthesizers and fabulous horns!
Dedicated to the guys and gals from the
80's who could not get enough night after night.
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Wishbone - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tantra
In 1980, "The
Double Album" by Tantra was pretty much like "the
word" for disco music. This project arranged by Celso
Valli and produced by La Drogueria Di Drugolo and Quelli Del
Castello not only contained classic euro-disco tradition -
it also was a bit cutting edge for dance floors. The first
successful track from the LP was "Hills Of Kat Mandu"
and followed by "Wishbone" this product made history.
It is still looked at as perfect dance music and researched
by many new jocks who may not have the ability to play it
in their programs, but certainly respect it's existence.
This ReStructure brings the beat to a maximum
with some new rhythm tracks - but my overall attempt to keep
the original sound was my purpose.
Dedicated to Kerim for sharing so much
wonderful music and his love for true disco/dance music.
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Behind The Groove - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Teena Marie
Teena Marie explored
the implications of disco, funk and soul with her 1980 LP,
"Lady T". As an artist, Ms. Marie made it clear
that her music was always created and not manufactured. As
you can hear in this production of "Behind The Groove"
- produced by Richard Rudolph.
I have always imagined this place she sings
about, "Xanadu" to be a place of mystery and excitement.
An extended intro and playful additions hopefully create more
of a description.
This one is a classic among soul, disco
and funk catalogues - this ReStructure is dedicated to those
who "feel the funk."
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I've Got The Next Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Deniece
Williams
The 1979 disco
hit, "I've Got The Next Dance" by Deniece Williams
was produced when disco music was at it's highest in dance
energy. It was an exciting time.
This production by David Foster (Average
White Band's "Let's Go Round Again") a multi-award
winning producer, arranger and composer. It is obvious that
he placed every effort in this project. And with a 12"
version mixed by Mr. Jim Burgess, this track was as polished
as disco music could get.
I have taken the 12" track and arranged
it as if it were meant for a dance marathon for the track
itself. Adding only a few more beats and some percussion to
pull even more energy from the track.
ReStructured for Alan - "The dance
does go on, Alan."
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Believe In The Beat - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol
Lynn Townes
Carol Lynn Townes
confirmed the dance craze of of the 80s, brought on
by the disco era with Believe In The Beat
this song rings 80s and also the good old a great dance
anthem for its time.
I have taken the 1984 track produced by
Ollie E. Brown and a fantastic 12 single mix by John
"Jellybean" Benitez to a new arrangement and synth-mover
feel. No matter how dated the sound may be lets
keep the heart of the matter alive.
This track opens my SHADES OF SEVENTIES
site and has remained the opening clip for several years now.
Thanks to Alan for insisting this ReStructure be done. Thank
you, Alan it is a fantastic good feel song.
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Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
McFadden & Whitehead
This 1979 blockbuster
was the finale conversion from Philly to disco - it was the
most conventional track for discotheques during this peak
period.
Produced by Gene McFadden, Jerry Cohen
and John Whitehead for Philadelphia International Records.
I have taken more of the bass line and created more of a "hop
scotch" style arrangement - jumping back and forth and
finally leaving where you cam in.
This song is still a classic as one of
the "old school" songs that can still be heard supporting
disco's history - this ReStructure is dedicated to Rick and
Dream Lounge for "Back To Disco"!
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Love Is Just A Breath Away - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix
- Donna Summer
From the 1982 LP
produced by Quincy Jones comes Love Is Just A Breath
Away this one was a hidden treasure to be uncovered
right now!
This track always displayed Donna as Donna
her whispery vocals and soaring climactic bridges are
brought to life with this ReStructure to a close-to10-minute
mix.
For those who cant get enough of
Donna Summer I dedicate this steamy number. Bringing alive
the dance movement of the 80s and lingering on to now.
The perfect song to start the weekend.
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Quartz - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Quartz
In 1978 Quartz
released their LP simply titled Quartz. This LP
displayed some of the earliest signs of new age technology
in dance music. Many variations are displayed throughout this
project, which remain some of the simplest, yet the most complex.
Produced C. Quartz and engineered by Regis Le Corre
Quartz is the A
side of the project, which is simply a theme using bold synthesizers
and keyboards to outline a tribal like theme. Much of the
choruses and chants are not understood and this is what makes
the track as mystical as a classic like Hills Of Kat
Mandu by Tantra.
It builds into several layers of rhythmic
pulses, which is how I ReStructured the track for a new feel.
A bit of fantasy has always been what disco
music was based on in the mid and late part of the era
this is one of the finest.
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Can You Read My Mind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Krypton
This 1978 single
was produced by Bobby Martin and Ron Kersey - although it
sounds alot like the Johnny Mann singers of the mid-70's it
still holds much of the magic that lyrical disco was all about.
I have taken the track and created a plausible
arrangement which folds into string section loops and more
verses to accentuate the song and mix.
This track is dedicated to the imagination
of all those who close their eyes while listening to this
music and hold it dear to their hearts.
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Self Control - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Branigan
Laura Branigan
burst upon the dance scene of the 80's with her big hit, "Gloria"
- many at first suspected that this might have been the new
Donna Summer when hearing it echo through the clubs at first
release. I can remember many coming up to the booth asking
if it was the new Donna track.
Branigan's powerhouse vocals rocked her
way onto the dance floor. Her follow up to "Gloria"
was "Self Control". During a time where pop-dance
was taking on more of a rock edge this track was perfect.
It contained an early morning sleaze edge and an energy that
made Branigan even more of a commodity in dance music history.
Sadly, Branigan passed in 2004 at the age
of 47. She left behind some great pop-tracks and an unforgettable
energy that was in my mind, the start of her career.
This ReStructure is dedicated to Laura
and also Paul in NY for requesting an epic mix of the track.
Good energy to you all.
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Fantasy Island - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tight Fit
Produced by Tim
Friese-Greene in 1982 and performed by Denise Gyngell, Julie
Harris and Steve Grant - This track soared as a number by
ABBA would with crescendos that could make a dance floor shutter!
The original 12" and 45 track was
3:23 - I have taken the major parts of the song and extended
it to over 10 minutes and beautiful choruses and looping chords.
Dedicated to Robert from the UK for his
belief in the "magic".
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Forbidden Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madleen Kane
Produced by Lana Sebastian, Michaele and
Paul Sebastian - this classic disco track mixed by Jim Burgess
is brought to life again with more "fire" than originally
intended.
I have taken the piano track and looped
them with more of the percussion and energy from the 12"
mix.
Madleen Kane scored high with this follow
up to "Rough Diamond" LP - it is a perfectly recorded
LP and also features, "Cheri" and "Secret Love
Affair" making it perfect for your Valentine's Day -
no matter what kind of love you hold in your life.
Dedicated to Paul Parker and Madleen Kane.
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Night Dancer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jeanne Shy
Those disco songs that pulled you into
a make believe world of flowing strings and thumping ecstasy
were wonderful to find. In a realm of fantasy "Night
Dancer" by Jeanne Shy erupted in 1979. Produced by Bob
Esty (Barbara Streisand's "The Main Event", Frankie
Valli's "Heaven Above Me", Cher's "Take Me
Home" and "Hell On Wheels" LPs, D.C. LaRue,
Andy Williams disco rendition of "Love Story", etc.)
and also the arranger and probably the reason for the success
of Donna Summer's "Last Dance" and "Once Upon
A Time" projects. Esty's genius in the disco scene has
been overlooked long enough - he has created some of the most
lyrical and exciting productions and arrangements in disco
history.
With Jeanne Shy he utilized her incredible
(and I say mildly) vocal range to the extent of haunting disco
lovers for years with this 12" single featuring a fabulous
remake of "That Old Black Magic" on the flip.
This track was another that I felt reluctant
to touch - but had to pay homage to the greatness of it and
continue to spread the magic across another place and time.
This one will have you floating above the floor as well as
moving on it.
A great track and best dedicated to the
artist, Jean Shy (as spelled today) - check out the magic
at her site by CLICKING
HERE - WHAT A VOICE!
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Moonlight Madness - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Teri DeSario
Teri DeSario created quite a stir with
her 1978 initial hit, "Ain't Nothing Gonna Keep Me From
You" - this track was written and backed up vocally by
Barry Gibb. It was the sweetest love song to hit dance floors
at this time. Returning with a follow LP in 1979 titled, "Moonlight
Madness" on Casablanca Records. The project was produced
by H.W. Casey (K.C. of the Sunshine Band) and contained more
of DeSario's beautiful ballad tracks (including the top 10
hit "Yes, I'm Ready" - a duet with K.C.). "Moonlight
Madness" was a mystical sounding medium energy track
which would have worked well for an early morning set.
I have taken the track and exposed more
of the swirling sounds of the synthesizers and keyboards along
with Teri's magnificent and "whimsical" vocal. The
new rhythm tracks and "slaps" bring the song a bit
more energy.
This one is dedicated to Michael in New
Mexico for reminding me of this little gem - it worked then
and I believe it works now.
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Dance To Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio
The 1979 LP "Outline" by Gino
Soccio was probably one of the most innovative of the time
since Giorgio Moroder's "From Here To Eternity"
in 1977.
"Dancer" was the top dance pick
at the start of the excitement - later bringing "Dance
To Dance" onto the floor for it's spin. This track has
all of the element's which Soccio made his own sound. Many
influences from his past productions are lightly sprinkled
around this project - but he truly focuses on creating a new
sound all together. This LP also generated the popular single
"The Visitors" also and a top form remix which lasted
throughout the early 80's.
I have had many requests for this one and
other Soccio tracks - which is why he returns so soon. And
of course, this is a personal favorite among many.
This ReStructure is dedicated to Soccio
and his mystical sound and the "magic" he has left
for listeners and dancers to become intrigued by.
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Savage Lover - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Ring
Producer, arranged and conductor by Marcus
Barone in 1979 - this was one of the first in experimental
tracks on the "dark-side." It is a fantasy apparently
brought to life with rhythms and a distinctive chant. The
first time at hearing this track may pull you in several directions.
It was intended that way I am sure.
Ray "Pinky" Velazquez is noted
as the "disco consultant" on this track - he added
the right flair for a early trance-like experience.
"Savage Lover" is a fierce cut.
I have always been hypnotized by it's simplicity and always
reminded that the arrangement in a track this this makes it
effective. It presents a stage for the vocals, chants, percussion
and synthesizers.
It was a bit of a stand still trying to
figure out what to do with this number. Making it more abstract
was all I could think of. And with the looping and fading
it works a whole new feeling into the song.
Dedicated to the all-night dancers of the
past who may have found themselves stomping to this number
early on a weekend morning.
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This Time I Know It's For Real - Glenn Rivera ReStructure
Mix - Donna Summer
Yes. It's the "Queen Of Disco"
once again in the ReStructure spotlight: Paul from New York
asked about applying a change to Donna's 1989 hit comeback,
"This Time I Know It's For Real".
This is a mild and mediocre blend of the
highest peaks of the song. The long piano intro is my way
of creating a lush intro with enough looping and effects to
notice a bit of a change, but not take away the original feel.
It was strong enough.
Produced by the UK pop-dance trio Stock,
Aitken & Waterman and mixed by Pete Hammond, this track
is a classic return to disco with an 80's edge of studio engineering.
Dedicated to Paul and all of Donna's everlasting
fans who know that the love has always been there in her music
from the start.
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Right In The Socket - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shalamar
Shalamar in 1976
was Jody Watley, Jeffrey Daniels and Gerald Brown and later
in 1979 Howard Hewett replaced Gerald Brown. This was originally
a studio project produced by Simon Soussan with their first
successful LP "Uptown Festival" - their third LP
"Big Fun" followed "Disco Gardens". The
big hits were endless for this trio. "The Second Time
Around" had already ran it's fever across dance floors
when "Right In The Socket" was released from the
LP.
This cut was made for the dance floor with
it's clever lyrics and fantastic array of percussion tracks.
Produced by Leon Sylvers and Dick Griffey from Solar Records.
I have ReStructured the cut to give the
breaks more standing and the track a bit more length. I dedicate
this track to "Misha" who never ran short of energy
back in the day and still goes strong with inspiration and
love.
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Willie and The Hand Jive - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Rinder and Lewis
Discognosis, El Coco, In Search Of Orchestra,
Le Pamplemousse, Saint Tropez, and Tuxedo Junction are disco
diehard projects which helped create a formula that we know
today as disco music. Laurin Rinder and W. Michael Lewis were
the geniuses behind these productions.
Much of the music that Rinder and Lewis
created were based on their own experiences of discovering
what discotheques and the music creating that was creating
te excitement. Their approach obviously was a great one. The
ability to utilize their keyboard and synthesizer skills as
well as orchestral ensemble completed a well-accepted sound.
"Warriors" was one of their projects
which rang true to their formula - it was a blend of disco
music's most basic elements and a few of their 50's and 60's
influences. "Willie and The Hand Jive" was originally
a smash hit in 1958 and started a dance craze for the then
dance scene. Rinder and Lewis revive the song in 1979 with
pulsating synthesizers and ominous keyboards dripping which
bring the song to life once again.
I have taken the track and removed some
of the "saint-like" choral segments which always
worked mystically for me - but my attempt was to capture the
song in a driving essence using the original song as the key.
New drum beats and claps (Hand Jive Style) were added to give
a new feel to those funky synthesizers.
Dedicated to W. Michael Lewis and Laurin
Rinder for their gift to dancers all over time.
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Working The Midnight Shift - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix
- Donna Summer
Those of us who remember when "Once
Upon A Time" was released in 1977 can remember the impact
that it created. It was truly as if the "Queen"
had arrived - Ms. Donna Summer.
This LP was a demonstration of pop/funk/soul
and disco all rolled into a fantasy-like package - what more
could this genre of music ask for at such an important phase?
The choice cuts on the LP are many. Hardcore techno-disco
fans that could not get enough of Giorgio Moroder and Donna
Summer's "I Feel Love" achievement the year before
will remember "Act 2" of the story board featuring
"I Need You" and "Working The Midnight Shift"
with Moroder pulsating synthesizer work pounding out the "Phantom
Of The Opera-like" organ's and keyboards and Donna's
soft and enticing vocals floating over them.
I have taken "Working The Midnight
Shift" and created a whole new ReStructure complete with
new percussion and some usage of those fantastic keyboards
and sequencers.
This ReStructure is dedicated to the hardcore
electronic junkies of disco.
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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.
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Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix
- Boys Town Gang
Producer, Bill Motley revisited the euro-disco
feel ala San Francisco style in 1982 following the success
of the first Boys Town Gang EP "Ain't No Mountain High
Enough" - this time utilizing Jackson Moore on lead vocals
as Cynthia Manley went onto create a solo career.
This LP was a potpourri of remakes featuring
Redbone's "Come And Get Your Love" and Stevie Wonder's
"Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours" - the top
of the list was a remake of Frankie Valli's "Can't Take
My Eyes Off Of You". This track was the track which is
most celebrated from his LP.
Motley created a layer of strings and percussion
elements similar to those of the Euro-disco peak of a few
years earlier and did so with a common ground on maintaining
the disco sound. This period was known as the return of high
energy/disco.
I have ReStructured the standard breaking
the track down into a few more melodic breaks as well as crashing
breaks.
Thanks to Kerim for requesting this one.
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I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix
- The Emotions
The LP "Flowers" was released
in 1976 and featured a production of Sheila Hutchinson, Wanda
Hutchinson and Wanda Vaughn as the funky and soulful Emotions.
This project produced by Charles Stepney
and Maurice White who later moved onto projects with Denise
Williams as well as Maurice's Earth, Wind and Fire band. Soul
and funk moved together during this period and created an
exciting brand of dance music. This being the most exciting
of this time.
"I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love"
is a fantastic production of horns and guitars which are ReStructured
with some new percussion tracks, which I created to give the
track a new feel.
Dedicated to Maurice White and the ensemble
of Earth, Wind and Fire for their years of devotion to soul
and funk.
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Fill My Life With Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Saint
Tropez
W. Michael Lewis and Laurin Rinder were
the magicians of disco music. Many of their projects including
El Coco, Le Pamplemousse, Tuxedo Junction, Discognosis, and
their own solo production titled Rinder and Lewis were the
hardcore essence of disco music. Utilizing strings, horns,
percussion and the almighty synthesizer to mesmerize dancers
throughout the disco era.
Songs like "Cocomotion" I must
admit I never quite figured out why I was so enthralled by
their arrangements and ideas. This is the magic of disco music.
Saint Tropez was more of their adult-theme
side - utilizing sexy LP covers to guide our minds into why
disco music has always been sensual - with it's pulsating
beat and ability to explore areas much more effectively in
pop music of the time.
"Fill My Life With Love" is an
orchestral movement with a love song attached - I have taken
the original arrangement and have broken it down several moments
to expose more of a stimulating fantasy mix.
This ReStructure is dedicated to the geniuses
of their own kind - W. Michael Lewis and Laurin Rinder.
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Stars - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester
In my ears this is the most powerful disco
gem of all time Sylvesters Stars.
It outlines the club scene of the disco era in one song. Everybody
is a star
Written by Patrick Cowley and produced
by Harvey Fuqua and Sylvester this one could not loose! A
powerful thought brought this one to mind for a ReStructure
and also a request from a close-friend, Michael here
in San Diego. I would never dream of touching this classic
mix and sound but when I started I began flowing with
the song and hopefully brought it to life for you again.
Backing vocals were provided by Hodges,
James and Smith and build under the pulsating synthesizers
and bold horn and string arrangements with great demeanor.
This track will live on and on in my memory
as one of the best moments standing in the Trocadero Transfer
in 1979 and hearing it for the first time on one of the most
dynamite sound systems over a dance floor to you Sylvester!
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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, Lets Fly. Both LPs are
winners. They contain Jimmersons magic keyboards and
Vi Anns 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 Lets 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.
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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!
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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.
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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.
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Rhythm Of The World - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino
Soccio
If you wondering how Gino Soccio found
his way in another ReStructure you probably dont know
this album very well. How could I resist?
Rhythm Of The World is probably
one of the finest disco numbers in the early 80s to
begin a trance-like feel with Soccios 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 albums.
Special thanks again to DJ Joey for giving
me the inspiration for retouching another classic by Gino
Soccio may the sound ring on forever!
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Machine Gun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Commodores
1974 was the release of second LP
for the very talented Commores - 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...
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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!
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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.
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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.
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All Night Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Loose Change
If you take a look back and glance at the
cover of Loose Change's credits you will find the finest musicians,
engineers and production team in disco music. This was at
the peak of disco music in 1979.
"All Night Man" is the single
from this project which created quite a stir among disco enthusiast.
It outlines a trip through every element of dance music which
is perfected. The fantastic vocal is poured over the raging
synthesizer like milk on a crunchy cereal. And a treat it
is. This project was produced by Tom Mouton (another release
along side of TJM on Casablanca Records) and features musicians
such as John Davis, Keith Benson, Thor Baldursson and Arthur
Stoppe among many other talents.
This ReStructure is dedicated to Peter
Calandra and Tom Moulton. Peter being a San Diego disc-jockey
who brought to life many nights of mine and Tom for being
the ring master to a fine course of dance music in it's embryonic
state.
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Rise Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Parachute Club
Dance music in the 80's was heavily influenced
by the disco mix of the 70's - many of disco's deejays and
engineers were working closely to create dance edits and versions
of top 10 music. Gearing it towards the dance floors once
again.
The Parachute Club's "Rise Up"
was a single produced by Daniel Lanois and mixed by John "Jellybean"
Benitez for RCA Records. The song was an underground classic
for many hardcore club addicts. I myself had this track on
rotation for an early morning crowd - it had that sound for
me.
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