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Tokyo - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer |
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• Give Me Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Fun Fun |
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Ice Cream Castles - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Time |
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Dance In America - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Boogie People |
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• Don't You Want Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Jody Watley |
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• (I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Modern Rocketry |
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• Garden Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Don Ray |
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Mommie (Erotic) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Kryptonite |
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• Get Down Saturday Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Oliver
Cheatham |
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Jump Into My Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Stacy Lattisaw |
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Heroes - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Big Ben Tribe |
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Love and Fantasy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eskimo |
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Don’t You Want My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Nicole |
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• Sleepin' (Now
That You're Gone) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cabballero |
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• Hymn - Glenn
Rivera ReStructure Mix - Magna Charta |
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• Too Late - Glenn
Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester |
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• Loveline - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shawne Jackon |
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• On The Road Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rockets |
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• You Came 2 Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Susanne Jackson |
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• Born To Be Alive - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Disco Connection |
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• Midnight Lover - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - People Like Us |
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You're The One - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rory Block |
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You're My Heart, You're My Soul - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Creative
Connection |
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The Music Takes-U-Away - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Panthera |
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Electricity - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ashaye |
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The Only Way Is Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Yazz |
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Get Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Maria Verano |
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• My Baby Holds The Key - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Moulin Rouge |
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(I Know) I'm Losing You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Uptown |
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• New Toy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Flirts |
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No Good Boy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Maxi Shannon |
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• Revelation Day - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - First Vision |
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Total Eclipse Of The Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Koffie |
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Backstreet - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patti Whatley |
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Mandrill - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Colby |
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• Turn Me, Turn Me, Turn Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mary Love |
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• Everything She Wants - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - WHAM! |
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When The Fuel Runs Out - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chuck Jackson |
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• The Blue Danube Hustle - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rice and Beans
Orchestra |
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• Love Pains - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lorenza Johnson |
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Party Boy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sean Heyden |
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• Thank God For Men - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Modern Rocketry |
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• Summer Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lipstick |
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Magic Nights - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Zara-Thustra |
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• Gimme Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Shy Rose |
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• Baby I Don't Know - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Kryptonite |
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• Love Resurrection - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Alison Moyet |
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• I Love You So - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Manny's |
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• Touch Me Baby - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ultimate |
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• Let's Make Love To The Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pattie
Brooks |
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• Thank You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Judy B. |
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• Hot Feet - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tschai Prender |
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• Hey,You Should Be Dancing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gene Farrow |
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• Leave That Boy Alone! - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Poussez! |
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• Out Of Control - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Evelyn "Champagne" King |
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We're The Right Combination - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - French Kiss |
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He's A Pretender - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - High Inergy |
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• Hot Lunch Jam - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Irene Cara |
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Get On Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Suzy Q |
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Future Brain - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Den Harrow |
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Breakaway - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pure Energy |
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Show Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kiwi and Tess |
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• Ten Percent - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Double Exposure |
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• Touch Me Now - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bravo |
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• American Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Astaire |
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• Save Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Say When! |
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• Maccaroni Radio - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eddy Trauba & M.M. Greco |
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• I Got Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peggie Blu |
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• Dim All The Lights - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Upfront |
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• Keep Doin' It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Showdown |
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• Rain Forest - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paul Hardcastle |
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You Made Me Believe - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Collins & Collins |
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Medley: I Don't Mind / Take Everything - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eugene
Record |
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• You Set My Heart On Fire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Evans and
Fisher |
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• Touch Me Baby - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - O'Hara |
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• Pretty Woman - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Scott Allan |
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• Jackie - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Blue Zone U.K. |
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Infactuation - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Up Front |
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• Cannonball - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Supertramp |
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• Nobody Else - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Karen Silver |
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• Destiny - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gwen Jonae |
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Frogs In Spain - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fake |
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• Magnifique - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jersy Devil Social Club |
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Edge Of The Razor - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stephanie Mills |
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Dance Right Back Into Heaven - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ernest Kohl |
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• I'm Your Boogie Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - K.C. & The Sunshine
Band |
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Try My Love On For Size - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Redd |
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(They Call Me The) Queen Of Fools - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jessica
Williams |
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Say It Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Santana |
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Dancing In The Dark - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bruce Springsteen |
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• Young Men Drive Fast - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Quick |
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• I Believe - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mko Mission |
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Exposed To Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Exposé |
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• Shake What You Got - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pulse |
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• Spend The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bob-A-Rela |
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• Heaven Knows - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer |
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• Don't Challenge Me - Glenn Rivera
ReStructure Mix - Makers |
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• Life's A Bitch - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Green Olives |
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• Non-Stop - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix
- Tina Fabrik |
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• Wanna Feel - Glenn Rivera ReStructure
Mix - Vivian Vee |
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• Disco Train - Glenn Rivera
ReStructure Mix - Dance Reaction |
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• Feel The Spin - Glenn Rivera
ReStructure Mix - Debbie Harry |
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• Be My Lady - Glenn Rivera
ReStructure Mix - Vanessa |
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• The Politics of Dancing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Re-Flex Re-Flex is an 80’s band featuring Baxter, Paul Fishman, Roland
Vaughan Kerridge and Nigel Ross-Scott. In 1983 their track “The
Politics Of Dancing” became one of the alternative dance numbers
which fit into the 80’s with every sound in place. The production
by John Punter was on spot with rhythms that down-beat and a
filtered percussion accompaniment which added to the infectious
vocal. The 80’s became the period where nu-wave, punk, alternative
and rock were blended well with synth-pop and left a sound that
again, was mastered out of the elements of disco for the time
period. “The Politics Of Dancing” is a clever take on world
leaders and heads and the control on which they decide for all.
This number transforms the premise into a nice little “message”
which seems to glorify and detest the many effects – either
positive or negative. |
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• Let's Make It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vallerie Allington Valerie Allington is an Italo-disco artist from the early 80’s who
was introduced with a track titles “Stop” released in 1982. This
experimental and innovative time was perfect for Italian producer
Sangy to work his 70’s influenced keyboards into the new Italian
disco sound. “Let’s Make It” is her second release from 1984 also
produced by Sangy and every bit as exciting and powerful. This is
an uplifting message of love put into a reverberating love song
that follows the edge of Kraftwerk with pieces of their hit
“Numbers”. This pretty much has it all for the time period as it
was always requested and I kept it alive throughout the year. |
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• I Wanna Groove - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Arlene Duncan Arlene Duncan is a Canadian singer who also records under the name
of Kairene. Her single “I Wanna Groove” from 1982 was produced by
Ian Guenther and Willi Morrison who are better known as THP
Orchestra. This duo also produced The Duncan Sisters (no relation
to these ladies), Sticky Fingers, Southern Comfort and The Grand
Tour. THP move into the 80’s was a daring time since music was
morphing from a full scale disco production which these two men
helped to create, into am 80’s synth-pop sound. This track has a
heavy jamming beat which outlines the disco feel but the keyboards
and arrangements we simple I assume to test the waters of the
dance floors at the time. The track has a moving energy that
maintains THP’s reputation and is brought here again to remind us
of the 70’s to 8’s conversion of dance music. |
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• Pick Me Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Marz Marz is an Italo-disco project from 1984 with Bill Pettaway,
Dwayne Herndon, Gerard Mackell, Gregory Mackell, Keith Rowel, and
Marvin Ennis. Their big track “Pick Me Up” is an unforgettable
song that echoes out a touch of sophisticated funk along with the
innovative feel of Italian disco which became its own brand of
funk during the early 80s with bands like Change and Bronx,
Brooklyn and Queens Band. “Pick Me Up” is a beautiful New York
funk stylized piece and has many qualities and riffs that stand
out to give a bravo at the closing. |
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• Don't Stop The Train - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kristeen (alias Viola Wills) Kristeen is a cover name for disco legend,
Viola Wills on a 1985 release of “Don’t Stop The Train” – a dance
floor hit released by Phyllis Nelson in 1981 and produced by Yves
Dessca – who also produced this Kristeen (Viola Wills) version.
Earlier in 1979 he recorded Viola on a track titled “You Will
Forget”. Another fantastic performance for Viola who seemed to top
every performance with the next thanks to her beautiful voice and
range – her big hit in 1980 with “If You Could Read My Mind” which
started another row of hits for her. In “Don’t Stop The Train”,
Viola performs this like a Shakespearean actor exuding the emotion
and drama nonstop – it is quite a feat and understandably why she
was brought in again as a session singer but then of course under
the alias Kristeen (even a photo of another woman on the 12”), But
all in all we know Viola and the tremendous talent we had pin the
dance floor and this is another reason to celebrate her magic. |
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• Looking Out - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Oh, Romeo Oh Romeo is a studio group from
high-energy/disco producer Bobby Orlando. The sessions produced
several singles on Orlando’s Bobcat Records label including
“Looking Out” from 1983. This one is a roundup of the elements
that Orlando created in the early 80’s using heavy percussion and
rolling synthesizers to pull off the task. It was this sound that
helped the mid and late 80’s to continue the dancers to serenade
all over again and again. It was definitely a fusion of what
producers like Giorgio Moroder were bringing forth in the mid and
late 70’s. |
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• Undercover Girl - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Redd Sharon Redd is the diva of the funk with a
disco groove following it. Her introduction onto the dance floor
was beautifully timed with a studio group called Front Page and
their huge single “Love Insurance” from 1979. Her solo recording
career began in 1980 with her big Prelude Records single “Can You
Handle It” – and following were big dance palace hits including
“In The Name of Love” and “Beat The Street”. “Undercover Girl” is
a single released in 1985 – produced by Michael Stokes. It was
close to the 80’s pop-funk sound that groups like Apollonia 6 and
Midnight Star were weaving. It is the Sharon Redd who plays it
street like a lady. One of the funk-fests for Redd and in her own
way she conquers this piece. |
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• Slave To Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sammy Allen Sammy Allen is a German Euro-dance artist
from the mid-80s who released 2 singles which helped to keep the
electronic dance aura alive. “Slave To Love” is a single released
in 1988 – produced by Alf Siol. This track follows the patterns of
a rock anthem which may had relevance in the early 80s. A simple
keyboard arrangement in the Asian-wave style of the late 80s dance
floor. This German production was featured on the Night’n Day
Records which has some major slick releases in the period. The
sheer ecstasy in the vocal makes this one a bit camp and as always
it worked on dance floors. |
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• Unchained Melody/Need Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Clem Curtis Clem Curtis is a singer from Trinidad,
West Indies who was originally from a group called The Foundations
from 1966 through 1968. The disco era was fortunate enough to have
Clem record his cover version of The Righteous Brothers 1964 hit
produced by Phil Spector, “Unchained Melody” with a disco
arrangement produced by Tony Sadler. Clem’s single was released in
1979 on RCA Records and is one of the underground favorites among
those DJ’s who did not miss it due to over saturation of this big
disco year. This dance version allows Clem to deliver a wonderful
vocal over a 70’s funky arrangement with guitars and the sweet
strings sweeping across the groove. The titled “Unchained Melody”
comes from the film that the song was featured in titled
“Unchained” released in 1955. |
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• Walking On The Floor - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Quartz Quartz is Didier Plus, Laurent Taieb, and
Patrick Langlade. A French disco band from 1978 originally founded
by Chris Quartz (Saint-Preux) and leading the period with a big
disco hit titled “Beyond The Clouds”. It was an innovative
instrumental with a new age feel to it along with the pumping bass
lines and breaks of disco energy. The style was one of the
starters for artists like Gino Soccio and Patrick Cowley. “Walking
On The Floor” is from their 1979 project “Camel In The City” – it
is another part of the process of creative disco with beats and
electronic pulses bringing energy to life.
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• Looking For Clues - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Robert Palmer Robert Palmer is an interesting vocalist
and musician. A British pop-rock singer he recorded his own style
of music throughout 1974 to 1983 where he found a new stage for
himself recording pop-funk songs in his own appeal. He released
dance floor hits “You Are In My System”, “I Didn’t Mean To Turn
You On”, “Early In The Morning” and “Tell Me I’m Not Dreaming”
which were prior dance floor hits that he revived in his own
sound. “Looking For Clues” is from his 1980 project titled “Clues”
which bears the 80’s dance feel with an extreme and percussive
arrangement and a few small breaks. It was a big DOR (Dance
Oriented Rock) crossover and made its way on many dance floors. |
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• This Must Be Heaven - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jerry Carr Jerry Carr is one of the funk and soul
talents in the music industry who is a self-taught musician and
brings the 80’s a new brand of funk. His 1981 album “This Must Be
Heaven” produced by William Talbert (Shotgun) is a refreshing
piece of work for a period where dance music shifted from disco to
a soulful and funky groove. The title track is the big hit here
and plays out in a romance turned to a dance. It as the foundation
of a nice New York funk track with some catchy riffs throughout.
Jerry does a very nice job covering this one with a soulful and
dedicated performance which still plays out in its originality. |
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• Electric Avenue - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eddy Grant Eddy Grant is a musician and producer who
began his recording career in 1975 fusing a blend of reggae, funk
and soul. Into the 80’s he became an iconic figure with many of
his songs outlining current world events and status of the
struggles among people. “Electric Avenue” comes from his 1982
album “Killer On The Rampage” and plays out as a shout out to the
Brixton area which of the time was the first to be lit by
electricity yet remained violent, racist and many tensions. The
song itself is a landmark among the 80’s dance period thanks to
its electronic groove which plays out almost like a robotic groove
taking on an edgy sound. It moved many feet and also brought many
minds to think about awareness to find solutions to some of the
problems in society and the world. |
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• It's Alright - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Brown Peter Brown is one of disco music’s
greatest gifts. His music has always been innovative and funky
with a fusion of electronic grooves with soul. His introduction to
disco music in 1977 with “Fantasy Love Affair” was a signal to the
dance floor that a sound was emerging from soul and funk soon
assemble itself in a new way from Brown. “It’s Alright:” is from
his 1979 album “Stargazer” which big dance floor hit “Crank it
Up”. There is a sound within each of Peter Brown’s creations which
ring out in its own way and this piece is no exception. Even
though this song seems to relay a misinterpreted relationship it
plays out in an upbeat manner thanks to Brown’s masterful
keyboards and arrangements. |
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• (You Got Me) In The Mood - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Puff Puff is a disco session from producers
Will Crittendon (Mantus), Brad Baker, Don Oriolo and Neil
Levenson. This is the ultimate underground sound with a touch of
the chic edge of disco. Complete with sensual femme ensemble and
swirling strings this one pulls out everything that the 70’s disco
dance floor exuded. It is a journey into the sexy and pulsating
beats that made hips move and shake. “(You Got Me) In The Mood”
was one of the big 1979 surprises but came at a time where the
music faded into a message of the dance backlash – however for me
it still represents good energy and uplifting energy – that is
what disco was all about. |
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• Catch The Rhythm (Universal Mood) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Caress Caress is a Euro-disco project from Boris
Midney – an innovative arranger, composer and producer. His
projects from the start were an experimental edge in the late 70’s
beginning with USA European Connection (“Come Into My Heart/Good
Loving”) which initially was overlooked on dance floors but soon
after became the new technical sound of disco music. He then
followed with Beautiful Bend which was a masterpiece of disco
elements with a swirling orchestra lifting the melodies and funky
accompaniment. It was his style which created a cult following and
this project called Caress where he began o shift his sound into a
new audience and period of dance music. |
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• Love Fever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gayle Adams Gayle Adams is a funk/disco vocalist who
emerged in 1980 on the New York disco label Prelude Records.
Produced by Rodney Brown and Willie Lester who also gave us Sharon
Redd’s “Can You Handle it” and Bobby Thurston. This brand of New
York funk helped the 80’s to move into a new direction and also
kept the hardcore underground club feel intact. “Love Fever” was
released in 1982 and is a great outline of the Gayle Adams
delivery that made her a big dance floor favorite. |
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• Bad Connection - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Strange Affair Strange Affair is an Italo-disco project
from producer Giuliano Salerni – who also gave us Ultimate’s “Love
Is The Ultimate”, Hi Gloss and Bonnie Boyer. His work was another
European disco venture which played out with full orchestrations
and funky rhythm and bass guitars. “Bad Connection” is from the
first medley on the project where a gay man dials in error a
lonely woman who is willing to have company during a lonely hour.
It is quite camp and plays out with the vocals of Brenda Hill,
Carolyn Mitchell, Joy Lober and Vaneese Thomas in a camp-like
chorus. The ladies also created the vocals for Ritchie Rome’s
African Suite project. |
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• Fantasy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Ritchie Family The Ritchie Family project titled “All
Night All Right” from 1983 features Jacqui Smith-Lee, Linda James
and Vera Brown on vocals and was produced by Gavin Christopher and
Jimmy Douglas. “Fantasy” is a single that falls close to the work
in a prior project by Jacques Fred Petrus with a trickling techno
set as the girls lead a sexy and haunting refrain. It is one of
the pieces that I would use for afterhours sets that lead to such
an atmosphere. It is a different feel for The Ritchie Family and
has a nice airy quality. |
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• Let Yourself Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Supremes The Supremes in 1977 featured Mary Wilson,
Scherrie Payne and Susaye Greene as the trio. Their single “Let
Yourself Go” produced by Holland, Dozier and Holland was one of
the big records during the underground dance scene of Paradise
Garage which immediately gives this soul number a standing all of
its own. The girls serenade the atmosphere with a light and sweet
message of being who you are is a necessity for the moment so it
also becomes one of the early anthems of the dance floor. This one
shines throughout time with the nice groove pumping out the energy
for the trio to sing out and rejoice about the happiest times on
the dance floor. |
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• Everything So Good About You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Melba Moore Melba Moore is one of the true voices of
soul from the 70’s. She has always delivered a performance which
gives off the innocence of a child who blossoms with emotion and
knowledge. Her career in the late 70’s transformed her instantly
into a dance floor favorite. With big hits like “You Stepped Into
My Life” and “Pick Me up I’ll Dance” there was no keeping her
talent away from those who were ready to express it in dance form.
“Closer” is her 1980 project produced by Bruce Hawes, Victor
Carstarphen and Melba. The initial track titled “Everything So
Good About You” is a disco funk track that became an instant hit
on my dance floor at the time and gave me another opportunity to
program one of my favorite voices once again. |
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• Let's Stay Together - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Richard Woods Richard Woods is artist from 1983 who
recorded a cover of Al Green’s soul classic “Let’s Stay Together”
with an electronic arrangement full of sharp slivers of beat and
handclaps. This version was released on Disconet Program Service
Volume 6 Program 8 and was always an alternative for myself during
early evening or after hour’s sets. It moves in a nice vibe and
takes the songs into a new arena that pumps it into a synth-pop
edge. It was never released following this issue so the version
here is as close as it gets. |
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• Something About You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Angela Bofill Angela Bofill is a vocalist who began as a
jazz influenced voice with many recordings that placed her in a
unique start. Following the direction of ballads which outlined a
love story of either new love or heartbreak her direction became
more of an r&b and funk take with her beautiful voice. The 80’s
brought her into a new arena of self-discovery and a new style put
forth by her new label Arista Records and the direction of being a
leading diva. “Something About You” is simply a take on the
pop-dance market with Angela serenading with her voice in a new
arena. She handles this love sonata with all of her sense of
displaying her goods effectively. Produced by Narada Michael
Walden in his prime of creating or rejuvenating talented voices
this one is merely a sweet love song that plays out plainly. One
of the factors which always caught my attention is the guest
musician – Mr. Patrick Cowley brought on board for this one
creates the sweeping hand claps. |
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• Love Machine - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Thelma Houston Thelma Houston is a disco icon since her
big dance floor hit “Don’t Leave Me This Way” from 1976. Her 1979
album “Ride The Rainbow” featured a cover of The Miracles 1975 hit
“Love Machine”. Thelma takes the song into a new direction where
she directs her awe at her man who seems to know how to work her
in the right way. Produced by Hal Davis and tailored with a few
new riffs to give this soul classic a disco face lift. |
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• High Rise - Glenn Rivera ReStructure
Mix - Ashford and Simpson Ashford and Simpson are musicians,
songwriters and performers who have made music history with songs
like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “I’m Every Woman”. Their
musical exploration has created a big impact in the industry which
helped to reshape and create paths for musical substance and
fusion of soul and disco music. “High Rise” is a single from their
1983 album by the same name and is a song that outlines a
relationship where the breaks are evident when one leaves for
opulence and a new life outside the mediocre. It was a big pick
for DJs for club play and makes another mark in their songwriting
and performance once again. |
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• Breakdance - Glenn Rivera
ReStructure Mix - Irene Cara Irene Cara is best known for her dance
anthems “Fame” and “Flashdance...What A Felling” during the late
70’s and early 80’s. Her 1983 project with Giorgio Moroder
featured several tracks that became more fan adored with the
production of 80’s synth-pop more favored. “Breakdance” is a
single that became one of the tracks that emerged and is one of
the Moroder-esque sounds of the 80’s with his jittery sequencers
jumping all over the beats. It is a short but mentionable track
that celebrates the 80’s street dance that became one of the
visuals for a new brand of music of the time. Mostly inspired by
rap and street beats this electronic energy driven anthem plays
out like a cascade of keyboards pouring out the mood. It is a
Moroder project that echoes his work during the early 80’s where
he found himself quite busy on many projects. |
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• Children Of The Sky - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgia Morandi Giorgia Morandi is an Italo disco project
from producer Toni Verona and features Renata Giorgi on vocals for
this single, “Children Of The Sky”. This is a lovely piece of
Italo-disco with a beautiful instrumental and vocal. The soft and
gentle approach is one of the great sounds of early morning music
where the dance becomes closer to the soul. This one was released
in 1988 on the classic Flea Records label and is one of my
all-time favorite Italian disco songs. |
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• Work Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fever Fever is a band with Dale Reed,
Dennis Wadlington, and Joseph "Joe" Bomback. Their big LP “Fever”
from 1979 is one of the peaks of the disco era with its energy and
segued medleys of nightlife on wax. This was one of the huge DJ
plays of the time and both sides were equally played. Production
is a full on electronic production with a few insets of the teams
horn and percussion talents. Their first single from 1978 – a
disco cover of “Standing In The Shadows of Love” is another mark
in their music history as it was equally as successful and
innovative. “Work Me” is the second track from the medley and
always brought the appropriate energy to follow the first hit
“Beat Of The Night”. |
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• Make Your Move - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Joe Thomas Joe Thomas is a 70’s soul jazz and funk
musician who began his recording career in 1964. His music was
accented by his very well-known flute talents which were always
the lure of each song as he always played with emotion and ease.
Joe’s music was also following the crossover of soul music to funk
which gave his flute performances a whole new stage. “Make Your
Move” is from the 1979 album by the same name and features vocals
by Gordon Grody (credited as Pleasure Palace) who may sound
familiar with Gregg Diamond’s sessions. This release was also a
12” single which moved quite well as a follow up to Joe’s 1978
disco hit “Plato’s Retreat” (featured Diva Gray). The arrangements
were laid out by Brad Baker who also worked on many successful
disco projects in the late 70’s. |
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• Y.M.C.A. - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Glamorama Glamorama is a project on Almighty Records
from 1993 produced by Graham Wilcocks and Richard Cottie. This
project featured a cover of the Village People classic “Y.M.C.A.”
– done in complete camp featuring the vocals of high energy diva
Ms. Earlene Bentley. It is a wonderful twist with a whole lot of
essence on the disco diva stance and of course the disco era
itself. The production is laid out in the 1993 fashion with the
Euro-disco flair utilizing heavy bass (house) and plenty of
interjected pieces of orchestrations. It is much more uplifting
with Ms. Bentley at the helm and the play on words during this
arrangement is simply magnificent. This one always reminds me of a
great dear music friend (who left us) Mr. Marty Parriott who
always referred to this version as the Kate Smith version – as if
were here following the “Star Spangled Banner” salute. |
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• What You Won't Do For Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Denie Corbett Denie Corbett is a vocalist from the disco
era whose first single from 1979 titled “Be What You Are” was
produced by Joe Bataan. Her second 12” single released that same
year is “What You Won’t Do For Love” which is one of the last
driving disco tracks at the end of the era. This one has an
ominous energy and drive and powerful disco-diva performance from
Denie. It was always one of those big gay male discotheque anthems
for me with its strong and powerful female vocal and the
underground rhythm tracks along with soaring strings. This was
return to the independent sound of pure disco –perhaps the first
time Grace Jones’ “Do Or Die” affected the dance floor! |
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• It's A Love Thing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Whispers The Whispers are a soul group that was
formed in 1964 and recorded up to 2000. Their harmonies and
soulful vocal arrangements are the real advantage of the ensemble
and although time has moved and given their music a new sound the
essence are The Whispers themselves. “Imagination” is their album
from 1980 produced by Dick Griffey and The Whispers. “It’s A Love
Thing” is the funk touch of tight early 80’s dance grooves. It is
the old school that stands out among the class as most of the
music from Solar Records has. It is a love song that brings out
the men in a wonderful serenade that reaches peak after peak and
even throughout the verses gives them an opportunity to prove why
their lasting is evident. |
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• Welcome Aboard - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mother F Mother F is Denis LePage from Lime and
many dance projects including Diva, Kat Mandu, Voggue, Carol
Jiani, Chris Mills and Blush. His work as an arranger and producer
are the pinnacle pieces of the dance movement throughout the late
70’s through the late 90’s. Mother F is his project which
initially compiled instrumental versions of his big dance floor
hits of the early 80’s. “Welcome Aboard” is a single from this
project and is a wonderful cover of The Love Unlimited Orchestra
and Webster Lewis’ 1981 masterpiece. The electronic take and
execution are wonderfully created here and give the track more of
an underground feel. It is one of the great directions which
inform us of where LePage’s inspirations are generated – and this
is a wonderful place. |
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• Dancin' In The Key Of Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Steve Arrington Steve Arrington is a soul/gospel artist
who began his recording career in 1978 with the band Slave – known
for his vocal on the track “Just A Touch Of Love”. His solo career
gave us an inspirational dance track from 1985 titled “Dancing in
The Key Of Life” which became a club favorite immediately.
Produced by Keg Johnson and Wilmer Raglin brought to the surface
the garage sound of soul crossing into the 80’s dance circuit.
This drum and percussion sound lead by house-like bass sounds was
an innovative style and helped to pave the wave for a new edge of
music for the dance floor. Arrington gives an incredible vocal on
“Dancing In The Key of Life” and has always made this one sound
like a standard. |
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• Oxygen - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Blue August Project The Blue August Project is dance project
from producer Phil Harding – who also gave us tracks from The
Technos, Norma Lewis, Jackson Moore and Nitzer Ebb. This 1987
release is a club classic in the anthem form. It brought a period
in the late 80’s where the high energy sound was once again
brought onto the spotlight with beauty and the true essence of
disco/dance. It was a breath of fresh air for the time and still
resonates nicely with its crescendos and peaks. |
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• Morning Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - St. Tropez St. Tropez is a disco ensemble produced by
W. Michael Lewis and Laurin Rinder which began as an outline for a
disco concept that was sensual and bold. And although the music
relayed a soft and sexy delivery the production from W. Michael
Lewis and Laurin Rinder played like an orchestral boom full of the
ingredients that disco would become in the late 70’s. “Morning
Music” is a cover of a track releases in 1978 by a cover band from
John Davis titled Siren. This new recording takes the disco energy
of the original and plays it out in a slow driving beat that would
later become a genre of dance music called sleaze. The ensemble
here consists of Mona Lisa Young, Phyllis Rhoades and Lyndie White
is a disco display of sensual drama – a bit over the top but isn’t
that disco music? |
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• Big Fun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Inner City Inner City is Kevin Saunderson and Paris
Grey (Shana Jackson) – an innovative dance group which began a new
fused sound of techno/electronic dance the heavy bass beats of
house music. The mid-80s were an experimental time for dance music
and the crossover of DJ remixes influenced by their styles became
a sound which utilized looping piano and bass over heavy bass
beats. “Pump Up The Volume” by M.A.R.R.S. being one of the big
radio and club tracks to make a mark in this genre in 1987. The
house sound began as an alternative remix on pop/dance singles
which yielded the underground sound. “Big Fun” was released in
1988 and although it had an extreme impact on the club shift to
house and techno the years prior were definitely a testy of this
formula. The track is simple and dedicated to the Chicago house
vibration with a touch of techno and later to add acid elements to
the mix. |
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• Body Party - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Brenda Mitchell Brenda Mitchell is a project from French
disco producer Pierre Jaubert (Michelle, Chantal Curtis, Ice)
whose music played a vital part in the evolution of disco music.
His work became the link between soul and disco with his 1977 work
under the name Michele and the project which would be picked up by
West End Records and remixed by legendary Tom Moulton. The cross
became the disco that would catapult itself as the outline for the
dance floors of the mid and late 70s. “Body Party” is not just
another link in this direction but also a track that was remixed
by another player in disco history – Patrick Cowley. His remixed
version from 1978 displayed his electronic touches with his
keyboards and synthesizers to add energy and a new innovation as
he did with Sylvester’s “Dance (Disco Heat)” and “You Make Me Feel
Mighty Real”. “Body Party” is the early sound of his later
production with Michele titled “Disco Dance”. |
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• This Happy Feeling - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - GQ GQ is a disco/funk band - Emanuel "Rahiem"
LeBlanc, Herb Lane, Keith Crier, Paul Service and Steve Adorno.
Their huge disco hit “Disco Nights (Rock Freak)” from 1979 gave
them the golden opportunity to become one of the recognizable
faces of a time period of dance music. Disco was always defined
with a variation of funk and soul combined with a heavy bass drum
and accentuated strings. GQ is a great demonstration of the disco
sound fused with funk and soul. “This Happy Feeling” is a single
from their 1979 album “Disco Nights” and holds all of the magic
the band created with their talents. |
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• Love Is Magic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Midnight Gang Midnight Gang is an Italo-disco ensemble
produced by Jacques Fred Petrus and Mauro Malavasi both
responsible for disco classics by Macho, Peter Jacques Band, Rudy,
Change, B.B. & Q. Band and The Ritchie Family. The formula which
this pair created in the mid and late 70’s paved a way for a disco
music to achieve a peak and succeed. “Love Is Magic” is from the
Midnight Gang project which features players from various sessions
compiled by Petrus and Malavasi and once again focuses on the
celebratory feel of dance music where lyrics are placed for sound
rather than meaning. The concept is another disco orchestration
from Petrus’ Good Music Production group and includes his
signature style and dedication. |
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• Tunnel Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol Cooper Carol Cooper is a vocalist who released an
80’s high energy piece in 1985 titled “Tunnel Of Love” – produced
by Guy Ruvolo. This number was a club favorite thanks to its
everlasting riff where a vulnerable heart is ready to give into
strangers attempts. This was rolls out a percussion riff that is
the club sound of the 80’s all in one. Carol’s vocals paint a
wonderfully sweet “Alice In Wonderland” character in club land
being tempted and eventually falling deep. |
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• Where Is My Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eartha Kitt Eartha Kitt is a legend in music history.
Her unique vocal and sound is one that helped to create a mystique
on her aura. Many of her years are spent in an arena of being
‘Eartha Kitt” in her own sense. In 1984 she joined forces with
disco producers Jacques Morali and Henri Belolo – better known as
Cant Stop Productions – responsible for projects from The Ritchie
Family, Village People, The Lovers and Phylicia Allen. This once
again camp take on disco music’s lasting edge takes on Eartha in
her own formula where the essence is in her sound and reputation.
“Where Is My Man” was one of the 80’s club favorites for many
reasons and one of them is that is a perfect fit for Ms. Kitt. It
is taking “How To Marry A Millionaire” into a new stage. This one
will always mark the 80’s disco revival successfully and in its
underground self. |
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• 101 - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sheena Easton Sheena Easton became one of the 80’s dance
floor buttons to move. Her track “101” from 1988 is a piece
written and produced by Prince. The song is one of the
transformations from pop-dance to an underground flavor thanks to
remixes by Def House and their use of house bass and kick drums.
This one was a big hit in my club and carried through for months
as it blended well with the Italo-house and Chicago bass house
numbers of the time. Sheena delivers one of her lusty performances
which give her the darkness and sensuality of what the dance floor
in a disco realm is all about. |
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• Fire Fly - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Azoto Azoto is an Italo-disco project from
producer/arranger Celso Valli. The disco band was originally
called Lucrethia And The Azoto 14,008 on their first project from
1978 titled “Dance Skinsation” and brought Italo-disco into the
limelight with the uplifting tracks and electronic fused
arrangements. “Fire Fly” is a symbolic love song of a relationship
that only takes place at night – most likely at the club – and the
excitement brings the guidance of a light in dark. The flowing and
bass looping sound is the perfect edge for the oddness of the
Azoto chorus which always has a childlike sound.
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• Sweet San Francisco - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Queen Samantha Queen Samantha is a disco project from
France along with producers Harry Chalkitis and Charles Ibgui. The
group vocalist Gloria Brooks is the falsetto diva with a haunting
delivery which always gave this band a somewhat mystical realm.
Their big hit “Take A Chance” from their album “Queen Samantha II”
from 1978 gave them the dance floor as it became one of the big DJ
favorites and dancers release numbers. “Sweet San Francisco” is
from the same project and gives the same edge as this band
promises. It is a flowing piece with a moving wind which brings it
into play as a journey of sorts on the dance floor. Chalkitis
plays a big part of this band as he contributes many instruments
and also arranges. |
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• Love To The Limit - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bridgett Grace Bridgett Grace is a vocalist from the late
80’s house singer with a voice that set a fashion for the genre
itself. Leading the way for 90’s house like vocalists Dina Carroll
– whose delivery was a lounge standard feel: sophisticated and
beautiful. “Love To The Limit” is one of the pinnacle moments for
Bridgett as this song encompasses the 90’s techno-house sound and
energy with elegance. Produced by Jeff Mills, Mike Banks and
Underground Resistance, which commonly encompassed the Detroit
house sound with other elements. The 1992 release was always one
of my favs and till this day brings back the lovely days of a
disco diva swooning over beats and energy.
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• Love Take Me High - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Loverde Loverde is Frank Loverde, Linda Imperial and Peggy Gibson – one of
the first disco groups to enter 1980. Following the loss of
interest that major record labels and the “disco fever” that the
trend seekers who were only involved due to the hype and over
marketing of the word “disco”. Disco was always an underground
concept. The wave from 1977 – 1979 created an audience that were
only along for the ride and until the next trend they could find.
In my opinion the return to underground roots during the early
80’s was the best for the music as it kept those who truly
believed in the meaning and creativity behind the art of disco.
Loverde is one of the San Francisco community disco groups that
included Patrick Cowley and Don Miley. This trio has a bit club
hit in 1982 titled “Die Hard Lover” which remained true to the
disco environment but in a new electronic arrangement which was
more pleasing for a new era and audience. Those who always loved
disco music, unlike the followers were all drawn to projects like
Loverde. |
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• Spotlight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Elton John Elton John takes a turn onto the dance
floor in 1979 along with disco producer, Pete Bellotte (Donna
Summer, Trax, Roberta Kelly, Marsha Hunt, Munich Machine). His
project “Victim Of Love” has Elton’s touch on material including a
disco cover of “Johnny B. Goode” – and also includes some of the
Munich disco session minds like Thor Baldurson as arranger. The
cuts are segued as a disco long play mix and utilize the beat with
the hard pounding mechanism which brings the means for a disco
|
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• Casino - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Passengers Passengers is an Italian disco group who
began their big spin on dance floors in 1979 with their album
“Girls Cost Money” produced by Angelo and Felix Piccarreda – and
more notably arranger and conductor Celso Valli (Tantra, Azoto,
Nuggets). “Casino” is from their 1981 project with the disco flair
of the new electronic dance period of the early 80’s and disco’s
reputable chic edge. The fast moving number is a gamblers arena
where one spin or dram may change your life. This production again
gives Valli an opportunity for a simple disco pump and the
vocalists Chuck Rolando, Elwanda Contreras, Gesualdo Arena and
Mary Shaw to deliver a chorus for the excitement and thrills of
their world. |
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• Who Do You Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - THP THP is producers Willi Morrison and Ian Guenther, writer Bruce Ley
along with conducting by Pete Pederson. The session group began as
a project in 1976 titled “Early Riser” featuring a disco version
of the Theme from the television show “S.W.A.T.” – covered by
Rhythm Heritage more successfully that same year. The second and
third projects from THP (Three Hats Productions) were more notable
with the disco-pulsed “Two Hot For Love” and the four piece 40’s
big band infused “Tender Is The Night”. The finale project from
THP is “Good To Me” from 1979 which is a disco-popish dance
extravaganza in the live band fusion meets disco engineering. “Who
Do You Love” is the last track on the album which features
vocalist Joyce Cobb. A wonderful closing to numbers which all
bears a recognizable feature and the bluesy and soulful vocal by
Cobb. THP pours all they have into this project and for one of the
last full-on disco orchestrations and arrangements make this a
memorable listening and dance experience. |
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• Nasty Disposition - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Aurra Aurra is one of the early 80’s funk bands which consisted of
members of the band titled Slave. This session band began its
recording career in 1980 with lead vocals from Starlena Young
whose voice is most recognizable in the Slave track “Just A Touch
Of Love” from 1979. “Nasty Disposition” is from their 1981 album
titled “Send Your Love” produced by Steve Washington which gives
the funk and disco arrangement its proper blend. The crossover
between the disco era of the late 70’s and the funk edge injected
to save dance music is a big part of this period. Many productions
using the dance formula were lowering BPM’s and giving more
resonance to the 80’s new funk sound and its disco influence. |
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• Bad Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Allen Donna Allen is an incredible vocalist. Her career began as backing
vocals for Miami Sound Machine and eventually leads to her solo
recording career in 1986 and her project “Perfect Timing” produced
by Lou Pace (Timmy Thomas, Nicole). Her single “Bad Love” from
this album was always my choice for an early evening warm-up
following the success of “Serious” which caused a big impact both
in radio play and club dance floors. “Bad Love” is one of those
funk-fests that are powered by Donna’s soulful and powerful vocal.
The electronic street production play along with the tailored sass
and smooth rhythms. One of my favorite vocal performances in this
genre. |
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• On The Beat - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - D.F. & Pam D.F. and Pam are Daniele Francescon and Mauro Pilato. Their 1983
single “On The Beat” is one of the Italo-disco tracks which helped
me to identify the importance of this genre in the history of
dance music. This one has the feel of energy yet a mild and smooth
delivery of keyboards and synthesizers which give the continuance
of disco music in electronic form its reason. The cover artwork
always reminded me of the early venture from Jacques Fred Petrus
and his production of Change (“The Glow Of Love”) and the lent
title of his B.B. & Q Band track. It would have been robbery had
it been duplicated, but not since the production takes on a whole
new light. This one was always a tug of war on whether to pay the
“a” side vocal or give the dance floor a new experience with the
”b” side dub/instrumental. It is solved here by myself for me by
combining them both. |
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• No Way Out - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Doris Jones Doris Jones is a vocalist who Ian Levine brought to the U.K.K. in
the mid-70’s to record his sound which became a powerful vocal
over his lush and orchestrated disco productions. This sound
became a unique and identifiable edge for Levine as his vocalist
always played to the hilt as the Broadway infused arrangements
were always a sensation on dance floors. “No Way Out:” is the
disco era of divas champion theme where love takes hold and never
let’s goes and the song displays the emotion with a resonating
emotion. It is released in 1977 and is one of the Levine and
Fiachra Trench steps to their eventual mastering of the disco
sound. |
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• Pump Up The Jam - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Technotronic Technotronic is a Belgium group produced by Jo Bogaert and the big
club hit “Pump Up The Jam” became the sensation of 1989. Following
house music of the mid-and late 80’s came an experimental period
of beats and eclectic keyboards in many variations which brought
the rave and techno edge to life. Technotronic merged the obscure
sound of rap and acid house into a sound which brought the
elements to a maximum. “Pump Up The Jam” is the starter kit for
techno music and worked in the underground energy into a whole new
edge of music for the 90’s. |
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• Handsome Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sparkle Tuhran Sparkle Tuhran is a vocalist from an ensemble titled Friends who
in 1979 recorded the project titled “Trans Am Dancing” – produced
by Jean-Pierre Massiera, John Brown III and Mike Felder. The track
“Handsome Man” is the dance piece which has become a story on its
own when Larry Levan of Paradise Garage made it a classic by
identifying its raw soulful vocal and unique striped instrumental.
A genre which would later become “garage music” and then later
“house” music following synth-pop. The song was immediately a big
hit among those who following the disco wave returned to the
underground club sound and created a style of music for the early
80s which is now a part of music history. |
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• Just Gotta Tell Her - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hot & Cold Hot & Cold is an Italian disco project from Gianfranco Bortolotti
and Pieradis Rossini from the mid-80’s and following in the
footsteps of session groups like Fun Fun. Their outline is similar
in a synth-pop direction and common sweetness shared. “Just Gotta
Tell Her” is their single from 1987 which sweeps high and low with
a bombarding edge of percussion and synthetic orchestral
movements. The feel of this one is a memorable and melodic journey
which made it a favorite among those Italo-disco followers. The
studio ensemble consists of Angela Parisi, Antonella Pepe and
Ivana Spagna in the chorus giving Italian disco music another
charge of energy and sweetness. |
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• Righteous Rhythm - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rose Royce Rose Royce is a band formulated by legendary producer Norman
Whitfield for the soundtrack of the motion picture “Car Wash”. The
band existed prior to the soundtrack as Total Concept Unlimited
and then during the soundtrack work a new member – the only female
member, Ms. Gwen Dickey became the completion of Rose Royce. The
instrumental pieces of Whitfield’s control of the sessions are
truly the cross between soul and funk of the mid-70s and also a
lead into the disco realm of music bigger than a radio box
exploding in variations. |
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• Central Park - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Martina Martina is a disco artist from La Drogueria Di Drugolo also known
as Kat Mandu Productions and the production team responsible for
Tantra (“Hills Of Kat Mandu”, “A Place Called Tarot”) and Lama
“Love On The Rocks”, This project titled “Disco Round The World”
was released in 1980 and featured several disco tracks with the
electronic pulse which became the 80’s merge of Italo-disco and
synth-pop. “Central Park” was a single from the album which sounds
more like a move on the high energy tracks with a touch of funky
guitars and some nice groove breaks. It is an obvious salute to
New York’s day and night playground and brings a mysterious feel
to life in this track from Martina. |
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• Chinese Ways - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Secrets Of
China Secrets Of China is a Belgium Beat project from Herman Gillis, Jo
Casters, Roland and Beelen. Their track “Chinese Ways” from 1988
was a part of the new beat movement of the late 80s. A style that
was by legend, created by slowing down 45 disco electronic tracks
to lower BPMs and exploring the edge of the electronic groove. In
many of the selections from this genre you are only given segments
of rhythms and tracks that are heavily stamped with riffs and
samples. Some samples a bit racy and instigated a cult following.
“Chinese Ways” has a fantastic groove which always caught my ear
and the smooth looping keyboards always were a house-like
experience that was hypnotic. |
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•
I Need A Man In My Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Katie
Kissoon |
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Evolution - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio Moroder |
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• Sex Appeal - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sophie St. Laurent |
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• Brazil - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Ritchie Family |
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Won't You Let Me Be The One - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Michael McGloiry |
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Nasty - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Janet Jackson |
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• Voices In The Dark - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mike
Cannon |
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Dirty Talk - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Klein & MBO |
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• No Credit Cards - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amanda Lear |
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Some People - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cliff Richard |
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Burn It Up, Mr. D.J. - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Risqué |
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• Love Attack - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Amber |
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• On The Road To Mandalay - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Harlow |
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You Know I Like It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nick
Straker Band |
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Perfect Fit - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jerry Knight |
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Fuego - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mali Carvalho |
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•
I'm In Too Deep - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - James Bradley James Bradley is a soul/disco artist who was a part of Henry
Stone’s disco label Malaco Records. His self-titled album released
in 1979 was produced by Frederick Knight – who also gave us Anita
Ward’s “Ring My Bell”. The single “I’m In Too Deep” is one of the
12” releases from the project and received some play early on and
then vanished out of sight due to the many releases during this
peak year for disco music. This track had some wonderful elements
like many of the tracks on this album. The sequencer shooting
energy into this love song work well with the energy. This one is
a T.K. Records 12” classic and should bring to mind a touch of
soul with the hardcore disco punch. |
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•
The Love I Lost - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Seventh
Avenue |
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• Shine A Little Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Les Blues
Belles |
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Another Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kano |
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Laser Light - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Latin Lover |
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Can The Rhythm - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Girl Talk |
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• Motown Review - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Philly Cream |
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• Everlasting Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vicki Sue
Robinson |
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• Burning Spear - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Salsoul
Orchestra |
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• Law Of The Land - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Professionals “Law Of The Land” is a track recorded by The Temptations and The
Undisputed Truth in 1973 and produced by Norman Whitfield (Rose
Royce, Stargard, Gladys Knight and The Pips, Edwin Starr). The
song crossed into the realm of disco with it rhythmic edge and
rolling bass parts. It became one of the underground gems of the
dance community and is covered here by a studio group from Belgium
called The Professionals. This cover comes close to original with
an electronic production lifting it into the 80’s synth-pop arena.
It is close to what may have influenced Fancy’s “Come Inside” from
1984 as it shares similar bass and rhythm attributes. The
Professionals version also gives a female vocal that brings the sg
into more of a disco feel. Their version was released in 1985 and
was produced by J.P. Bulté. |
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• Loveride - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nuance featuring Vikki Love Nuance featuring Vikki Love is one of the freestyle headliners in
clubs during the mid-80s. Their 1984 freestyle classis “Loveride”
is one of the most unforgettable beat driven dance tracks of its
time. Vocals here are provided by Vikki Love and set the beats on
fire all over again as she tells of her deepest fantasy over and
over. It is a soulful rendition which gives an open gate to the
divas of the time for a challenge. It has always been one of my
top plays of the period and still today when I hear that chorus
riff I cannot get it out of my head |
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• Take Me To The Top - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Advance Advance is an Italo-disco funk project from Italian producers
Alvaro Ugolini and Dario Raimondi – who also gave us Fun Fun and
Monkey Business. This piece is one of the New York funk crossover
productions closely immolating the edge that Jacques Fred Petrus
brought with Mauro Malavasi with the band Change. The
extraordinary and melodic feel of the song is captured by vocalist
Tracy Ackerman of studio high energy groups Astaire, Mirage and
Massivo. The keyboards are a longing for the crisp and emotional
effect where dance becomes more of a ritual. “Take Me To The Top”
is one of the hidden gems of Italo-disco in a shift from the
traditional 80’s high energy into an arena of emotions and funk. |
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• Life At The Outpost - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Skatt Bros. Skatt Bros. are Craig Krampf, David Andez, Pieter Sweval, Richard
Martin-Ross, Richie Fontana and Sean Delaney. This band was
formulated by Sean Delaney and Ritchie Fontana at the tail end of
the 70’s and their first album titles “Strange Spirits” was a
production from the THP team Willi Morrison and Ian Guenther (THP
Orchestra, Grand Tour, The Duncan Sisters, Sticky Fingers,
Southern Exposure). The project included two dance floor hits –
“Walk The Night” and “Life At The Outpost”. The band had a rock
edge with a few remix ventures for the two tracks which caught on
to clubs. “Life At The Outpost” is a slight western flair piece
that has a catchy riff that will stick in your head with a roaring
guitar twang bridge. It was one of the big dance floor numbers in
many of the gay clubs and another shift for dance/disco music
during the late 70s. |
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• Tempt Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lisa Lisa (Lisa R. Fredenthal-Lee) is a singer/artist and high energy
80’s diva. Her big club hit “Jump Shout” from 1982 helped to
revive the dance community into a new era of movement and unity.
Her music was always uplifting and abstract as her persona teased
and delivered. “Tempt Me” is an electronic high energy track
produced by Ian Anthony Stephens and Paul Parker and was released
in 1985. A fast reverberating dance number that explodes
(literally) with excitement and a touch of tease from Lisa’s at
times sexy. |
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• Touch by Touch - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Diana Ross Diana Ross released her 1984 album “Swept Away” in 1984 and proved
that this legend goes on and on. This album helped to continue her
iconic career as a pop-icon in the dance arena of the 80’s – a
much diversified time and place for dance music. The track "Touch
By Touch” has always been one of my favorites from the project
since it outlines and uplifting love anthem with a Calypso feel.
It was one that I would play directly from the album cut during
the early build of the evening. The track gives Diana an
opportunity to device her sexy vocals over a rolling dance rhythm
and plays out very well for both. |
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• The Force - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nancy Nova Nancy Nova is a unique dance artist whose big club hit “The Force”
from 1981 was a refreshing taste of experimental electronic music
with a wonderful strange edge. It was another return to the
innovation of disco music since the mid-70’s when Meco and Rhythm
Heritage were disco-fying popular film and television soundtracks.
In “The Force” Nancy brings here vocals into the memorizing sound
of a 50’s sci-fi flick with a host of thumping rhythm guitars and
a chorus of galactic aliens. One of the big “forces” of the club
underground club scene of the early 80’s. I personally preferred
this one as an after-hours introduction to a new set of dance
music for the imagination however it works in many areas. |
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• You Keep Me Hangin' On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tata Vega Tata Vega is a Motown artist who began her solo career in 1976 on
Tamla Records. Her voice is recognizable with the soulful and funk
edge she creates with adlibs and delivery. Best known for her
vocals in the film “The Color Purple” where she sang under the
character Shug Avery – produced by Quincy Jones. Tata’s album “Try
My Love” from 1978 featured a classic disco hit “I Just Keep
Thinking About You Baby” and kept dance floors waiting for her
presence once again. “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is her cover of The
Supremes Motown classic and is produced by Winston Monesque in
1980. The production is an electronic production with a light
touch of funk which supplies a wonderful foundation for Tata to
play out her style in this recording. More of her soulful talents
are drawn out and spotlighted throughout the arrangement. |
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• Guilty - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hotline Hotline is a studio project from producer Bobby Orlando and
outlines the synth-pop 80’s in a high energy light. Fast moving
and erratic sequencers percolate over heavy percussion and bongo
tracks are the production which brought this formula to its
greatest effect in the mid-80’s. Orlando’ Hotline began as a take
on his productions by The Flirts and his big hit with “Passion” –
and his own parody on his music created the formula which many
dancers will remember as infectious and hard to resist. “Guilty”
is another simple melody piece that has the confessions of a
cheating lover who turns themselves in with more resentment and in
this light “rhythm”. It was one of the big identifiers for Orlando
during the time and still a favorite among his followers and me. |
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• Give It Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - K.C. and the Sunshine Band K.C. and the Sunshine Band are the cream in a cup of disco. Their
music changed the sound of dance music during the mid-70 and
created what was known as the Miami Sound and then disco music.
Their classic songs “That’s The Way (I Like It)” and “(Shake,
Shake, Shake) Shake Your Booty” helped to pave the market for a
disco boom during the mid and late 70’s. “Give It Up” is a track
from 1982 and works within the 80’s shift in dance music for K.C.
since his iconic sound was a force within itself. His signature
rhythm guitars are the pulse of the music. |
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• Vibes - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - African Suite African Suite is a disco project from producer Ritchie Rome – who
also brought us The Ritchie Family, Westside Strutters and Flower.
His movement here is a theme in a mystical disco ream in a fantasy
in Africa. The title of the project speaks to itself. “Vibes” is a
piece from a medley where whispery femme narrators outline strange
phrases and mystical chants. One of the nice elements here are the
drums and percussion which were the building blocks of the late
70’s disco period. Although Rome created a very strange production
it plays out very well in the disco realm of adventure and
mystery. One of those early morning sounds that I always admired. |
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• Give Me Back My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Robin Wright Robin Wright is one of the 80’s voices from the high energy genre
which marked a nice growth in dance music history. Along with
producers Ian Gant and Ian Anthony Stephens they created a blend
of deep house music and high energy which brought some of the
transition into the light. Under the title Midnight Shift several
singles in the high energy vein were released and began their
legacy on dance floors. “Give Me Back My Heart” is their single
from 1988 and is a song following heartbreak and realization. It
is an emotional piece that plays out with a production featuring
all of the elements of the high energy genre. The beauty of this
song is the production and the resonating keyboard riffs. |
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• Hookey - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvi Foster Sylvi Foster is Domenico Ricchini and is also known as Joe Yellow
(“Lover To Lover”) during the early 80’s when Italo-disco began to
take over dance floors. “Hookey” is his second single released in
1982 on Discomagic Records and one of the well-known progressive
tracks of the time utilizing heavy synth keyboards and a unique
vocal style. It was an expression of electronic bands like Yaz a
few years earlier from Vince Clarke where his experimental work
began a new era of dance music. The song as Sylvi plays out a
strange love sonnet for a romance with a “cat call” for her
affection. One of the big Italo-disco pieces that many progressive
DJs were able to program and make use of it’s originally. |
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I Can Feel Your Heartbeat - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chris
Rea |
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Gloria - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Santa Esmeralda |
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Chemical Romance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - X-Factor |
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Nineteen Ninety Three - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lama |
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In The Middle - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Unlimited Touch |
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Hold On To This Moment - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mystery |
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Doctor's Orders - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Maegan |
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Freaky Behavior - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bar-Kays |
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The Big Hurt - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - BearEssense |
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• Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nightlife Unlimited |
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• Reincarnation (Coming Back For Love) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure
Mix - People Like Us |
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• Red Hot Stuff - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Magic Lady |
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• Yours And Yours Alone - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Esther
Williams |
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• Body Talkin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kathy Barnes |
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• Love Is The Groove - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Betsy Cook |
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• My Obsession - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Meri D. Marshall |
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I Can Do It (Anyway You Want) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Final Edition |
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• Shockwave - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - David Knopfler |
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• Be Yourself - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Air Power |
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• Do You Know The Way To San José? - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix
- Croisette |
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• Burnin' Alive - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tony Rallo & The
Midnite Band |
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• Heobah (Hey-O-Bah) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fonda
Rae |
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• All The People In The World - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Carol Jiani |
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Let Go, Let Go (Let Love Be The Driver) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure
Mix - Kellee Patterson |
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Let It Flow - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tamiko Jones |
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Waiting For A Train - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Moonbase |
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Every Breath You Take - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Otis
Liggett Otis Liggett (Evan Rogers) is the artists responsible for
electrifying The Police’s 1983 rock-ballad, “Every Breath You
Take” – produced by Tom Coyne. This cover remained one of the
powerhouse street dance tracks of the early 80’s with an identity
close to the Shannon-sound (“Let The Music Play”) created earlier
in the year. This heavy beats version takes the melody into a
beatbox environment and plays it out in parts along with Evan
Rogers’ wonderful reggae like vocal. This one stands alone as a
true to the original with the bells and whistles of the dance
floor of the period. |
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Satisfy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Soif De La Vie featuring
Lyma Russel |
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• Your Love Left It's Mark On Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Sarah Dash |
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• Jerky Rhythm - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Erotic Drum
Band |
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In The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cheryl Lynn |
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Have Fum (Again) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Diana Ross |
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In The Year 2525 - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Act
featuring Clinton III |
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• Gone With The Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Voyage |
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Magic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bella & Blue |
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Shake Me Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cheryl Dilcher Cheryl Dilcher is a 70’s rock singer who began her recording career in 1970 singing psychedelic rock and folk music. Her career lead into the disco era where she was picked up by the dance label Butterfly Records – headed by A.J. Cervantes. During the disco boom many artist were attempting a comeback or break out by recording a disco track was customary and some were successful. “Shake Me Up” is a production from Jim Taylor who is known for his disco album from 1979 titled “ Bernadette” and also his affiliation with THP Orchestra and Blackwell. The love song sounds like early disco music with the swirling violins and heavy percussion elements. This may have been a safe play for a track that DJs would warm up to but during the release it was lost amidst many disco albums and singles pouring out onto dance floors and disc jockeys hands. It is one that holds a few irresistible hooks from Cheryl’s vocal delivery and the work on strong bongo fills. I have taken the 12” version of “Shake Me Up” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix with more of those bongos beating in and out of a new layer of percussion. The song has a new fade as well as more of the chorus that definitely feels like a disco riff more than it sounds. |
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Robot Is Systematic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - 'Lectric Workers ‘Lectric Workers are Franco Rago, Gigi Farina and X. Monneret – an Italo-disco project on Discomagic Records who released their first single, “Robot Is Systematic” in 1982. The single is one of the early Italo-disco tracks which became instrumental in both innovation and energy. It was picked up by San Francisco’s premiere DJ Subscription service and featured a remix by Steve Algozino (of Zino “Walk Away Satisfied”). The song uses a strange array of keyboard riffs and short interludes – very reminiscent of Trans-X’s “Living On Video”. An Italo-disco classic which one who desires the weaving of rolling bass sequencers and 50’s sci-fi scores a must. I have taken the 12” version of “Robot Is Systematic” and reworked a new programming for this ReStructure Mix. I have added a familiar 80’s riff to the foundation to lend a bit more excitement and also approached the arrangement in a whole new way. |
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Fools Are Friendly - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Xclusiv Xclusiv is a UK disco project from British producer Jeremy Paul who also produced Nick Straker Band’s “A Walk In The Park”. “Fools Are Friendly” is a track that follows a mode of 80’s electronic songs that fit into a segment and sound of either early evening playlist or after hours. It moves slowly yet envelopes the ears and mind with its percolating sequencers and story which plays out as a mislead romance falls into tragedy. Almost a disco counterpart to soul music’s “What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted”. The rolling feel of the song make it a bit hypnotic and mysterious and fits into a category I always admired. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental and recreated a new ReStructure Mix for a new act on this underground classic. More rhythms are added to bring the track and it’s EQ up to a slight more energy.
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You Fooled Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grey and Hanks I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to recreate a new ReStructure Mix to outline this classic sound. More downbeats are added to give the new edit more drive and energy. |
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Non Stop - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Hernandez Patrick Hernandez became a household name is discotheques following his big 1979 disco anthem “Born To Be Alive”. Patrick performed his hot track in his unique and gentlemanly deliverance for audiences around the world bringing attention to his artistic approach to disco music. “Non Stop” is a single released in 1982 – produced by Jean Vanloo and parodies life as a pinball machine in a rhythmic sense. The impact is a bit less than his “home is where the heart is” message in “Born To Be Alive” but for the 70’s pinball craze it is a disco philosophy for dancing only. I have taken the 12” version of “Non Stop” and created a new ReStructure Mix using many of the riffs I found attractive. It pumps longer in the areas where the groove can work the song and gives way to a fade with new drums and effects. |
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Kiss Me Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dinosaur Dinosaur is Arthur Russell and Nicky Siano – a duo creating an alternative disco track titled “Kiss Me Again” from 1978. Vocals are provided by Myriam Valle who was a member of the band Desmond Child and Rouge (“Our Love Is Insane”). This one always reminded me of the 60’s Janis Joplin styled track that utilizes Russell’s cello solos and a guitar accompaniment from David Byrne. A heavy dose of dreamy and induced love where the desperation becomes the essence of a moody rock track or an early morning dance song. It plays out in a memorable fashion and has always been one of my favorites from the period which helped to create a new direction for alternative funk and disco. I have taken the 12” version of “Kiss Me Again” and created a new ReStructure Mix with a new intro and some pumped up bass lines. The dreaminess of the track is intact so that the original flow can work on its own again. |
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Thank You Baby - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rudy I have taken the album version of “Thank You Baby” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix for this fabulous piece. I have focused more on the rhythm and breaks to provide an ample remix. Added drums and breaks are more of the challenge here. |
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I Love Everythng You Do - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Susan Stevens Susan Stevens is a Canadian dance music vocalist who was produced and created by Johnny Dorazio, Robert Brewster and Tony Bentivegna – who also worked on the Nightlife Unlimited project on Casablanca Records. This phase in the early 80’s was a retrospect of late 70’s disco with a full electronic production. The endearing melodies and strong female vocalist were still upfront as productions as this proved that dance floors were still clamoring for beautiful feel music to move to. “I Love Everything You Do” is a single released in1983 and uses whirling synths and light keyboard riffs to bring the love song to a crescendo. I have taken the 12” version of “I Love Everything You Do” and created new ReStructure Mix adding some new beats and breaks to give the song more of a dance floor edge. The works are still intact with a few new surprises. |
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Weekend - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mick Jackson Mick Jackson (Michael George Jackson-Clark) is British artist, songwriter and singer who are best known for his composing “Blame It On The Boogie” – a song he recorded and also recorded by The Jacksons 1978 album “Destiny”. During the high point of disco music’s peak in 1978 marketing and releases were at their most celebrated and was a must for new, old and continuing singers and bands to release a single that was dance formulated for discotheques. “Weekend” is an anthem that shadows closely the funky sound of “Blame It On The Boogie” with a pop-effervescence that is truly the “disco single” of the time. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Weekend” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix with a new outline on breaks and also a fade in. There is some new percussion to assist the groove and a longer exit. |
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Heat You Up (Melt You Down) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shirley Lites Shirley Lites is a West End Records artist who’s 1983 release “Heat You Up (Melt You Down)” made her a remedy for aching dance floors. The track was produced by Frank Fioravanti, Joe Parente and Lou Parente – and was one of the great tracks which helped to give clubs like Paradise Garage their iconic sound. The bass drums on a reverberating echo chamber are the deep hidden groove and help to bring out the sound of New York street music of the mid 80’s. The creation of a soulful diva waving her notes in and out of this melodic groove became one of this period of dance music its flair – similar to what Sharon Redd’s “Beat The Street” formulated in 1982. Shirley Lites plays out this night of exuberance like a pro with her wonderful accompaniment and soulful style. This is one of those dance floor moments that can only be explained when experienced however the lure is all about the mystique. I have taken the 12” vocal and “melt down mix” into a new ReStructure Mix experience and reworked this fire into another play. It uses those thumping beats and smooth keyboards to capture the sound which got away much too soon. |
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Save Yourself For Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dee Dee Martin Dee Dee Martin is Jill Saward – a high energy project from producers Fred Bolero and Jeff Rivell. This is one of the early breakout projects from Passion Records in the early 80’s when their dedication to keeping the disco sound from the late 70’s alive. The edge of these productions followed closely a sound created by The Simon Orchestra – plenty strings (synthetic strings), a heavy bass synthesizer and pounding orchestral drums. This sound became the dance explosion once again during this period and soon became the driving force of high energy music. “Save Yourself For Me” is a lyrical love song with the Passion Records sound that echoes their big releases “Catch Me (I’m Falling In Love)” by Marsha Raven and “Got To Get To You” by Charade. The vocal from Jill Saward is one of the sweetest parts of the track and gives it the right edge for a love song. I have taken the 12” version of “Save Yourself For Me” and recreated a ReStructure Mix which takes the beat and rhythm tracks to a new foundation. It moves the verses around and gives way to some new breakdowns. |
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Love Is - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Thoty Thoty is Salvatore Vitale – an Italian vocalist who released the 1985 single “Love Is” produced by Paul and Peter Micioni (Gary Low, Klaudia, Bo Boss, Gazebo). This piece is an early morning gem that shines like a dance palace standard. It rings out the 80’s pop-rock sound with more of the Italo-disco elements guiding it along. Often mistaken as a number that may have been an 80’s band ala Cock Robin or of the sorts. “Love Is” is a flowing song that gives Thoty a nice arena to belt out in desperation just how much a romance means to his own. It is an effective number and wonderfully arranged by Micioni’s with the flair they have always given their projects. I have taken the 12” and club version of “Love Is” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix with a new edit and some new elements to assist in this new light. A few samples of another big 80’s icon take side stage to remind us of how a love song can make the floor shutter with delight. |
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Cold Turkey - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chris Mills Chris Mills is a Canadian disco singer whose album from 1981 echoes the high energy sound that was created by Joe La Greca and Denis Lepage. This electronic production is similar to the big sound that was changing the face of dance music in the early 80s by artists like Vera, Carol Jiani and Lime. “Cold Turkey” is from the self-titled album and was written by Denis and Denyse Lepage and gives Chris an opportunity to display his soulful edge to heartbreak and his moments following the demise of a relationship. This one pumps out like an electronic street- track with a keyboard arrangement that gives way to the drama. A nice piece of synth-pop with the 80’s energy sound fused in. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Cold Turkey” and reworked the beats, bongos and vocals into a ReStructure Mix. This re-edit adds a new bass beat to pound below the motorized percussion with more of the tracks instrumental used as breaks and to the songs layout. |
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What's She Got - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Liquid Gold Liquid Gold is a disco band from United Kingdom and includes Ellie Hope, Franco Morruzzi, Ray Knott, Syd Twynham and Wally Rothe. The production from Adrian Baker is one of the big sounds of the late 70’s disco era which united the pop-edge of dance music. Lead vocalist Ellie Hope is one of the definitive parts of the band and it’s magic. “What’s She Got” is a single released in 1983 and is produced by Rob Davis and Tony Taverner – this following the new era of disco/dance music where more of a down beat was being emphasized. The track was a popular one among many clubs that were still invigorating the disco sound as well as the new Italo-disco wave. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “What’s She Got” and re-pieced together the rhythm and percussion sections for this ReStructure Mix. It has been reedited with more of the drive and energy in mind. |
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Summernight City - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Astaire Astaire is one of the early high energy projects from Passion Records and producers John Davies, Nigel Stock and Robin Sellars. During an important period for dance music in the early 80’s this trio along with vocalist Tracy Ackerman created the sound of Passion Records with the symphonic high energy edge. Dance floors were still moving to the heavy disco beat but now in a new way. A hardcore blend of striking keyboards and heavy drum fills was the pace for dance music and soon became the recipe for high energy disco music. “Summer Night City” is a cover of the 1978 ABBA track and takes the pop-song into a heavy rolling house-feel. It plays out well as Tracy Ackerman’s familiar vocal is a touch of soulful beauty with the disco edge. It is a reminder of just how exciting the 70’s night was and how it affected our worlds. I have taken the 12” version of “Summer Night City” and reworked a bit of the rolling bass synths along with some new beats for this ReStructure Mix. There is more of a movement here more towards the dub sound although the verses remain intact. |
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Don't Let Your Chance Go Bye - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Watson Beasley Watson Beasley is Alfred Beasley and Gina Watson – a duo that fit into the early 80’s like new glove. Their soulful voices were pumped into a sound that crossed lightly into an 80’s nu-wave edge. Produced by Peter Alves (Witch Queen, Lafleur, and Soiree), Alfred Beasley and Gina Watson and recorded in Montreal this masterpiece is one of the projects which helped to keep the 80’s alive with the matured sound of disco music which many producers and artists from Canada had created and fed. “Don’t Let Your Chance Go By” is a nice pop-edged number that always reminded me of “What A Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers with a whole lot more of soulfulness and drive. It is one of the hidden gems of the period and always brought an early dance floor to me when included in my early evening sets. I have taken the album version of “Don’t Let Your Chance Go Bye” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix with more emphasis on rhythm and a new outline. More of the verses are set in motion with new percussion and a few samples from a Motown classic. This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Alfred Endure Beasley – in thanks for his contribution to music history on the dance floor. |
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Peaks and Valleys - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hott City! Hott City! Is a disco studio group from Jeffrey Steinberg and Jeffrey Parsons and features several vocalists on different tracks on the project “Ain’t Love Grand”. Released in 1979 this five track album was another one of the Butterfly Records gifts to the disco community with all of the trimmings that had evolved from the disco works of the late 70’s. “Peaks and Valleys” is the last number on the ride and is second track featuring vocalists Mildred Vaney and Ortheia Barnes – ho later became Cut Glass and recorded under the same producers the disco classic “Without Your Love” from 1980. “Peaks and Valleys” tells the story that the disco era simply was – a breath of fresh air for tired eyes and minds. It builds like an anthem which seemed the norm for these two wonderful ladies behind the vocals. I have taken the album version of “Peaks and Valleys” and recreated a new depth in this ReStructure Mix. There is longer intro and more breaks to remind us of what a lifesaver the dance floor was in the late 70’s. |
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Never Say Goodbye - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chip Chip Chip Chip is an Italo-disco project from producer Michael Gordon and features
I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Never Say Goodbye” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix using the drums and percussion in a new display. More of the rolling keyboard loops and sequencers break the verses into new energy. |
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Make It Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Debbie Jacobs Debbie Jacobs is one of disco music’s powerful artists. Her voice is a force of energy and beauty among the bass and roaring disco arrangements. Her second album “High On Your Love” from 1980 is another production from Paul Sabu and plays out as the perfect follow up to her “Undercover Lover” from 1979. “Make It Love” is one of the tracks which always stood out to me since it promotes the arrangement of a light rock edge keyboards and guitars in a funky disco arrangement. The riff is an opportunity to feel Debbie’s contagious delivery which always made her music a part of disco dance floors. I have taken the album version of “Make It Love” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix to give these one another turn. More swing beats are added to brings it more of the pulse of the street beat sound |
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Sessomatto - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sesso Matto Sesso Matto is Armando Trovaioli – an Italian film composer whose 1976 track titled “Sessomatto” is one of the classic disco pieces for West End Records. The song was a part of the soundtrack for “How Funny Sex Can Be”. The jazzy and sexy song also gives credit to early disco pioneers Barry Lederer and David Mancuso (The Loft). As one of the early releases as a disco singles and the European flavor and att8itude of chic disco music. It was this unation of funky elements which made disco music as sexy as it was. “Sessomatto” is a formula which brings together a funky groove and a few riffs that echo over and over. As this one plays out you can feel the early 70’s funk influencing a new genre of dance music that would become disco. I have taken the 12” version of “Sassomatto” and reworked the sensual elements into a new ReStructure Mix. There is more foreplay with drums and percussion along with a few classic samples of what really made disco feel sexy. |
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Germany Calling - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tone Band Tone Band is Adrian Askew, Linda Anson and Mike Starrs. This trio followed electronic bands that became the sound of synth-pop and a mixture of nu-wave in the early 80’s. Very influenced and similar to projects like Telex and Kraftwerk. “Germany Calling” is their 1981 album with the title single being one of the rare finds for those jocks who were heading towards an alternative or early morning sound in their programs. It is the earliest sign of what emerged in the mid and late 80’s with groups like Silicon Dream, Departure, Mozart and RAF – later to capture the attention of music subscription services like Razormaid. The rolling synthesizer and sequencers are reminders of the disco influence that later became the high energy sound. I have taken the 12” version of “Germany Calling” and transferred the broadcast in a new way for this ReStructure Mix. The original displays a mixture of a tune from the musical “West Side Story” and a movement from Beethoven – this blend brings more of each into the fantasy. |
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Never Let A Day Go By - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cerrone Cerrone is the man who developed disco into a European flavor that took he dance floor and music into a new realm. His work has always been respected from dance floors to connoisseurs of yesterday and even more so today. “Never Let A Day Go By” is a single from his 1989 album “Way In” and features Jeff Posseto on lead vocals. This lovely song has echoes of the Stock, Aitken and Waterman feel that was topping the lists of this period (ala Donna Summer’s “This Time I Know its For Real”). There is an irresistible flair to this one and does play out as a beautiful Cerrone piece and reminds us that talented artists survive in many arenas. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Never Let A Day Go By” and created a new weaving ReStructure Mix using some of Cerrone’s well known past markers. A loop in and loop out edit are the chances I took on recreating a new experience. |
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Gimme Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cellophane Cellophane is Alessandro Novaga and Giorgio Paganini. This Italo-disco project is from 1983 and 1984 and relays another progressive move in dance music. The synthetic sound of dance music during the early 80’s was an emulation of the disco was hearing in the late 70’s. As groups like Cellophane tweaked and reworked the electronics of Italo-disco their new edge was this abstract delivery in pieces and edits using vocoders and ecstatic riffs to color there canvas. It was much like what Art Of Noise did for the “beat street” sound of the 80’s. “Gimme Love” is their initial single from 1983 which evoked a hardcore delivery of their work. This one sounds like a Moroder piece from his experimental board on steroids and a dot of acid. A nice 80’s Italo-disco piece which marks a period where new hands rework the formula with glorious results. I have taken the 12” version of “Gimme Love” and transformed the original parts into a new ReStructure Mix. This homage to the Italo-disco of the 80’s plays out in a way that is familiar to Cellophane’s tradition. It is given a few new breaks and twists and tweaks. |
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She's A Groovy Freak - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Real Thing Real Thing is Chris Amoo, Dave Smith, Eddie Amoo, Kenny Davis and Ray Lake. This soul/funk/disco ensemble brought many tracks to the dance floor before, during and after the disco phase. Best known for their hits “Can You Feel The Force” from 1978 this band controlled their sound with a nice harmonic soulful sound. “She’s A Groovy Freak” is a single from 1980 which became one of the shifts in disco beats to funk – produced by James Mtume and Reggie Lucas who gave us disco classics by Phyllis Hyman, Stephanie Mills and their own group Mtume. I have taken the 12” version of “She’s A Groovy Freak” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix to give this one a longer life. It is one of the funk dance tracks that has some great riffs and always brings to mind that beat silence that took place in the early 80s. |
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Here Comes The Rain Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eurythmics Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart are Eurhythmics. This 80’s band is one of the creative forces of their time with obscure vison and takes on love and heartbreak. Initially fused as a synth-pop sound from their big hit 1982 “Sweet Dreams” their sound merged a light rock edge with the dance arena of the 80’s. “Here Comes The Rain Again” is a single from 1983 which features The British Philharmonic Orchestra on symphonic strings. The track was another surprise from the duo as it retained their eerie play with heartbreak, exquisite writing as well as Annie Lennox’s masterful vocal. As a salute to the 80’s and the continuance of dance history I have created a new ReStructure Mix for “Here Comes The Rain Again” using the 12” extended version and instrumental. A more sweeping intro with the lush strings and a play with the synth-drums and passion of the song. |
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For Your Sweet Information - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - P.J. Marcus P.J. Marcus is An Italo-disco artist who recorded on the Cruisin’ Records label from Ennio Tricomi. “For Your Sweet Information” is a 1985 single which is memorable for a beautiful period of melodic Italo-disco and the fusion of electronic dance music becoming high energy. This one uses synthetic horns to call on the energy and a fast moving percussion as well as a love note for a romance being resurrected. P.J.’s vocals ring out that 80’s synth-pop feel that we were familiar with in many Stock, Aitken and Waterman productions. It rings a nice sound for this rolling dance track and is another tribute to that Italo-disco period which kept feet moving throughout the 80’s. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “For Your Sweet Information” and created a new ReStructure Mix adding more intro and build to the opening and extending those wonderful chorus loops. This plays with the percussion and some of the vocals to give the song a break from the crescendo of the original. |
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L.O.V.E. Got A Hold Of Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Demis Roussos Demis Roussos is a Greek singer who began his recording career in 1971 which carried him through his lifetime when he passed in 2015. His distinctive vocals and style are the memory of this man’s incredible music journey. During the disco era his project with producer Freddie Perren brought his self-titled project which featured the single “L.O.V.E. Got A Hold On Me”. The track was popular among his fans and many disco audiophiles who were aware of the fondness of the blend of history of this talent along with the supreme touch from Perren. The song plays out with a touch of disco underground feel where the groove plays on as the arrangement takes its own control. I have taken the 12” version of “L.O.V.E. Got A Hold Of Me” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix of this hidden gem. It focuses more on the dub aspect of a new song utilizing the synth pieces as a foundation. More of the passionate feel of this one is placed into a new perspective. |
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Deliverance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Space Space is French disco ensemble created by Didier Marouani and Roland Romanelli and helped to pave a new sound for not only disco but also reviving a new age and electronic arrangements. Their contributions to music in the disco realm are a force to themselves and when more of their talents are exposed there is more of a symphonic feel. “Deliverance” is from their 1977 album by the same name and features a powerful vocal by Madeline Bell. This one is an anthem in its own right. Powerful chorus backing and a haunting aura make this one a nice production. One of the great numbers from Space and a layout of their phenomenal sound. I have taken the album version of “Deliverance” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix for a tribute to this time in music and Space. There are more drums and percussion added to pull the original arrangement into a new world. |
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King Of Clubs - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chocolat's Chocolat’s is a disco ensemble produced and founded by Marcel De Keukeleire. Their music was a celebration of dance and always moved to bring satisfaction to feet. “The King Of Clubs” is from their 1976 album and was one of the hidden treasures of the disco scene when it blasted throughout clubs igniting the complete sound of what the dance floor was all about at the time. It contains some of the funkiest rhythm guitar work and also a wonderful flowing chorus. This one is a classic in many senses and only reminds us of the unity and satisfaction of the disco dance floor. I have taken the album version of “The King Of Clubs” and created a new celebration in this ReStructure Mix. I have added a new beat track and some percussion to make this trip worthwhile. |
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Loleatta Holloway is one of disco music’s golden moments. Her vocals are a powerful tool used along with the storming disco energy that reined in the late 70s. “I May Not Be There When You Want Me (But I'm Right On Time)” is from her 1978 album “Queen Of The Night” – produced by Norman Harris and written by Bunny Sigler. This mainliner is a true disco classic with its diva attitude and full throttle production. Everything that is "disco" is here from the rolling bass to the blaring horns. One of Loleatta’s great vocal performances again and with the flawless production this one deserves to keep moving on and on. I have taken the 12” version of “I May Not Be There When You Want Me (But I'm Right On Time)” and reworked the arrangement for this ReStructure Mix. A new layer of percussion guides this one along. |
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Open Mind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jean Luc Ponty Jean Luc Ponty is one of artists whose longevity in music beginning in 1964 led his talent to be shared on dance floors in 1984. His project titled “Open Mind” contained the title track which brings to mind an essence of new age and a connection to a dance fusion. His violin performance follows closely what tracks like “Bolero” did in the 70’s in a new way. There is an 80’s exuberance to the sound of this track which pieces together the jazz edge of Luc Ponty and the world as it was for the time. I have taken the album version of “Open Mind” and refused a new sound for this ReStructure Mix. I have added some familiar percussion tracks from Kat Mandu’s “The Break” and also some of the excitement of a great dance floor instrumental. It plays out again in a new way. |
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Spend The Night With Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Silver Convention Silver Convention is a disco ensemble created by Michael Kunze and Sylvester Levay. Their big disco hits are a unique sound above the mirror ball which projects the melodic strings and funky bass guitars. “Spend The Night With Me” is from their 1978 album “Love In A Sleeper” and features Ramona Wulf, Rhonda Heath and Zenda Jacks on vocals. This one is one of the outlines for the disco bassline and the yearning that a sensual feel for this genre was created by. It is one of the big tracks that dominated during the peak of the disco era. I have taken the 12” version of “Spend The Night With Me” and reworked the bass and rhythm guitars into a new frenzy for this ReStructure Mix. It has been stripped down and rearranged for a whole new trip. |
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You Could Have Been With Me Last Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Primitive Fire Primitive Fire is a 90’s house project from Mitch Kitz and Susan Davy. Their sound was the light touch of big band meets jazz fused with a bumping house bass beat. The melodic range of songs includes “You Could Have Been With Me Last Night” from 1993 and is one of those pieces that stand out as a club/dance palace classic. It is dreamy and flows with a catchy chorus build that almost brings us back to an era Glenn Miller classics. It was always one which reminded me of Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band material with a 90’s house groove. I have taken the 12” “Ballroom version” and dub of “You Could Have Been With Me Last Night “ and reworked it for this ReStructure Mix. It utilizes the atmospheric horns as an intro and more breaks using the samples from K.I.D.’s “Hupendi Muziki Wangu?! (You Don't Like My Music)”. |
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Human Nature - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio Gino Soccio brought a new face to disco music in the mid and late 70’s. His progressive sound during the late 70’s in projects by Kebekelektrek, Busta Jones, Radiah Frye, Karen Silver and Witch Queen included his electronic touch. His solo album in 1979 on Ray Caviano’s subsidiary label was a huge move for disco music when tracks like “Dancer” and “The Visitors” were sounds that began an ambient and new-age sound with disco electronics taking control. Soccio’s following project began growing into his newly created style and continues to memorize listeners and dancers. “Human Nature” is a single released in 1985 and features Michelle Sweeney on lead vocals. This powerful message is a message of attraction and the cause. Michelle’s vocals work well with the new age electronic sound and leave this Soccio piece, a classic. I have taken the 12” version of “Human Nature” and reworked the winding sequencers and riffs into a new ReStructure Mix. It was always a favorite of mine so I yearned for a new arrangement and change that would express what I could hear in Soccio’s magic. |
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Cocoon - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Timerider Timerider is an electronic disco project from Tess (alias Fancy or Manfred Alois Segieth) who takes his sound into a hardcore instrumental. “Cocoon” uses the logo from the 1985 film and although the composition has no affiliation to the soundtrack from the film this piece still soars as if we were missing a part of the film. The sequencers in this production give way to robotic sound that becomes invigorated with beautiful synthetic strings and horns. It was as if a new score had been recreated by Manfred for the films purpose. This track may remind you of the old disco movie soundtrack themes that either Barry White or Meco would have worked on with this arrangement using more electronic percussion and drums to pound out the melody. It is one of my favorite instrumentals from the time. I have taken the 12” version of “Cocoon” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix using the sequencer bass synths as a new riff throughout. It is a bit more of a dub version however the synthesized horns and strings remain intact. |
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Tell Me Something Good - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rufas Rufus is a funk band who is best known for their lead vocal Ms. Chaka Khan and their brand of soul music with a funky edge. Music in the early 70’s became funky and a touch of those wah-wah guitars gave it a psychedelic feel. “Tell Me Something Good” comes from their 1974 project “Rags To Rufas” – written by Stevie Wonder and produced by Bob Monaco. It is one of the downright ‘funk-asized’ numbers of the time and one of the fabulous drawn vocals from our funk chanteuses, Ms. Chaka Khan. If you listen closely to her vocal here you will understand how her voice led her into the Queen of Funk. I have taken the album version of “Tell Me Something Good” and revived it for this ReStructure Mix. It is given a longer lead in to the funky riffs and breaks added. A tribute to the funk which lead to the grooves that later became disco. |
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Shake It Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Koxo Koxo is an Italo-disco project from Leonardo Re Cecconi, Anne Dattner and Mack Mc Kwaia. They released two singles during the early years when experimentation in a new style of dance music in 80’s began. “Shake It Up” is from 1983 and delivers nice mid-range energy with a dream like quality. It is the Italo-disco stamp of the time when energy was in the electronic flow rather than build. This one always stuck in my mind as the simple sound of feeling good as disco music left us in the late 70’s. The keyboards are performed in a mellow delivery and vocals are a combination of light hearted chorus riffs. An Italian disco moment which made the era of this music unique and effective. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Shake It Up” and transformed it into a new ReStructure Mix adding more percussion to kick up the energy. More of the trickling keyboards lead the new arrangement into a slight drop out of bongos and tambourines. |
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At This Moment - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Menage Ménage is a studio group produced by disco pioneers Warren Schatz (Vicki Sure Robinson, The Brothers, Evelyn “Champagne” King, The New York Community Choir, Viola Wills, Koffie, Cinema) and Eric Matthew (Sharon Redd, Gary’s Gang) and covers tracks that ring out for the dance floor. Their 1983 cover from the Broadway show “Cats” is “Memory” and was one of the big floor packers of the time. “At This Moment” is their third release and a cover of Billy Vera’s track from 1981. This one is similar to the electronic/high energy disco songs of the early 80’s and is helped along by the soft and emotion vocal. It is a mention for the 80’s which still remained a place for disco covers of great pop-songs. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “At This Moment” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix with more of the space between the verses and intro to create a more dramatic flair. There is a longer draw on the instrumental and the bongo fills. |
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Puttin' On The Ritz - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Taco Taco (Taco Ockerse) is a Dutch singer who introduced himself in 1982 with an electronic rendition of the Irving Berlin song from 1927 – “Puttin’ On The Ritz” and is known to be one of the first songs in a film ever performed by an interracial ensemble. Taco treats this classic as a unique vehicle for his showmanship and delivers this number in a synth-pop deep zone with heavy beats and bass to waver in and out of the tapping and classic debonair. The track was produced by David Parker and became one of the spotted dance tracks from the early 80’s to bring a new style and air to the floor. I have taken the album version and instrumental of “Puttin’ On The Ritz” and created a new stage ensemble for this dance classic. More of the tap dance effects and beats are pumped up to give more attitudes to this performance. This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Lee Bryant – thanks for the request Lee and good energy to you. |
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Looking From A Hilltop - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Section 25 Section 25 is an alternative electronic band formed by Lawrence and Vincent Cassidy and featured early work from Bernard Sumner of New Order. This experimental group created early sounds of acid house music which took over dance floors in the late 80’s accompanied by deep house and techno influences. “Looking From A Hilltop” is their 1984 single which uses electro-beats and hard hitting bass thumps to create a pattern of weaving music. More styled as music by groups like Cabaret Voltaire and which later became the Razormaid era of music. The track is one dub-like production that makes the beat feel like lashes from a whip. It was always a great after hours piece for me and many elements still keep the moment of creation alive. I have taken the 12” “Megamix” version of “Looking From A Hilltop” and recreated a mystic-like version for this ReStructure Mix. This piece plays homage to the ever changing sound of dance music throughout history and the many influences of its success. |
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Classic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chatelaine Chatelaine (Joyce Pruneau) is a Canadian vocalist who released a disco project in 1980 produced by Mr. Patrick Adams (Musique, Phreek, Center Stage, Inner Life, Wish, and Universal Robot Band). The project echoed the sound of the peak of the disco era when strings lead the drama onto the dance floor and the pulsating rhythm brought us to our feet. Done magnificently by Chatelaine and Adams – where her vocal keep the sweeping melody alive and Adams returns to his full disco arrangements that guide us to fantasy and love. “Classic” is the first single from the project which reflects the full experience of both of these wonderful talents. I have taken the album version of “Classic” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix with the emphasis on keeping the original flow and adding some new percussion and rhythm tracks to enhance the groove. It is one of Adam’s most beautiful work and has always reminded me of the cross between his arrangements and the lush sound of the early disco era with Barry White.
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Brand New Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dead Or Alive Dead Or Alive is one of the iconic bands of the 80’s. Their success during a period when synth-pop dance music was at its peak and a new aura was taking over. Pete Burns is the driving force of Dead Or Alive along with the frenetic production from Stock, Aitken and Waterman and together this combination took the late 80’s. “Brand New Lover” is the single from their album “Mad, Bad And Dangerous To Know” from 1987 and maintains the facelift that dance music was becoming following the high energy mark of the early 80’s. This one places Burns in a situation of uncertainty and ready to become another subject of uncommon movement. A classic among Dead Or Alive followers and one hard not to consume completely. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Brand New Lover” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with a winding intro and drop out exit. The new preface is only a salute to the band which made us all realize that a hard edge in dance music is only a gift. |
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Tight Pants - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Southern Exposure Southern Exposure is a disco project from producers Willi Morrison and Ian Guenther who also brought us THP Orchestra, The Duncan Sisters, American Fade, The Skatt Brothers, The Grand Tour, The Immortals and Sticky Fingers. This 1979 release is one of the familiar big disco arrangements as their THP #2 project which features a touch of rolling drums and a bit of big band horn sections in and out. “Tight Pants” is a flirty number that echoes the style of Morrison and Guenther to the line and also reminds us of the experimentation of the disco era and the magic it has left behind. I have taken the album version of “Tight Pants” and recovered the song with a new electro-beat accompaniment to deliver more attention to the slick edge. The chorus is the drop in on several breaks and makes this ReStructure Mix another homage to THP Productions. |
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Count On Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - T. Ark T. Ark is Uwe Arkuszewski – a German singer who released several singles during the late 80’s and early 90’s. His vocals were definitive and always recognizable as a high-energy allure. “Count On Me” is his first release in 1987 and was produced by Cay Hume – one of the high energy tracks of the time with the riffs which paste themselves to dancing minds and feet. A similar style to Mike Mareen yet flows in its hardcore electronic dance edge. This one plays out with the chorus taking over the track from beginning to end and makes the high energy appeal more of an accompaniment. I have taken the 12” version of “Count On Me” and used the vocal and dub versions to recreate a more rolling ReStructure Mix with more of the sequencers and keyboard riffs as an outline. The vocals are extended to give the connection here more of an opportunity to create a love song. |
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Imagination - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Telekin Telekin is a synth-pop/electronic project from Castle Webb and Graig Leon from The Netherlands. The band is one of the synth bands who resonate their outline as the following of groups like Human League. A chorus of nu-wave sounding vocals and a hardcore electronic dance edge. “Imagination” is a brisk dance number that takes the rolling sequencers into a new sound for 1985 where the street beat and synth-pop dance sounds were more alive than ever. I have taken the 12” version of “Imagination” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix for this 80’s dance piece. It uses more of the breaks and hard drums to recoup the energy. |
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Never - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Center Stage Center Stage is a disco project produced by Christine Wiltshire (Poussez!, Musique, Revanche, Easy Going, DSK) and in the golden disco tradition of strings and lush arrangements she expresses her true intentions. “Never” is one of the Prelude singles from the early 80’s with the full disco production and a beautiful vocal from Christine which brings to mind that obvious stance to be understood both lyrically and these fantastic vocal layouts. One of my favorite vocalist here from the 70’s telling us in a way that cannot soon be forgotten. I have taken the 12” version of “Never” and created a new ReStructure Mix to retell the story here with more instrumental gusto. The vocal remains intact with a lengthier show and a few new breaks. |
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To The Boys In The Band - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - La Flavour La Flavour is Craig DeBock, Gino Milchak, Pete Nervo, Rick Dotin, Rusty Bretz and Steve Nervo. Their big dance floor hit “Mandalay” from 1979 was a huge welcome their hard hitting energy of Latin percussion and Spanish guitar strumming. A nice combination of energy and excitement. Their second release from the album titled “To The Boys In The Band” is another number which brought many to the floor once again with its alluring Latin style percussion. I have taken the 12” version of “To The Boys In The Band” and created a new ReStructure Mix adding a few new elements to give it some new energy. More of that percussion to set the night on fire and a new sequencer to bring the beats alive. |
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Let Me Know (I Have A Right) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gloria Gaynor Gloria Gaynor built her stance in disco music on experience. Her first big dance floor hit from 1974 “Never Can Say Goodbye” is a classic which lays out the disco experience from the vocal and also technical end thanks to Tom Moulton’s endless mix. Her big follow up hit from 1978 was the anthem “I Will Survive” which is now a standard among others today. Her 1979 album produced by Dino Fekaris was a tough venture to the follow up on her previous hit but Gloria attains that challenge with another demand on taking on heartache and building a positive end. “Let Me Know (I Have A Right) is another anthem in a more subtle manner although Gloria’s performance stands true to the moment. I have taken the album version of “Let Me Know (I Have A Right)” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix with a new energy adding some drum and percussion. There is a bit more of the instrumental weaved in and out to outline the production of the original. |
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Windsurfing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lazer Lazer is an Italian-disco project from producer/arranger Celso Valli – who also brought us Passengers, Tantra, Azoto, Lama, Nuggets and Elite. “Windsurfing” is a track that follows closely as his Azoto project with the whispery vocals and sweeping electronic arrangements on a high energy curve. It was one of the early high energy tracks of 1982 and helped to keep the energy of disco music alive during the time period. The theme is one that follows the whimsical frolic of Italo-disco in a fun and simple layout. I have taken the 12” version of “Windsurfing” and recreated a ReStructure Mix to pay homage to this wonderful arranger and producer. The original elements including the percussion and bass lines are extended into new breaks and eventually a new breakdown. |
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Skin Tight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ohio Players Ohio Players are one of soul/funk bands of the 70’s which built the groove from the foundation of soul music in the early 70s. Their early presence in soul music helped to bring an extended groove to dance track. “Skin Tight” is from their 1974 album by the same title and relays their exploration of emotions and sexuality. This number is a sexy take on an appealing wear and groove. This one in its original state pulls a jazz take on the bass guitar groove. It is one of the soul classics that bring to mind the evolution of soul and dance music all together. I have taken the album version of “Skin Tight” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with a layer of new percussion and drops to pay tribute to The Ohio Players. The horns and bass are left intact and extended so that the outline is not lost. |
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Shame And Scandal In The Family - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Caprice Caprice is a project from legendary disco producer Jacques Fred Petrus and reflects a new sound for his repertoire with past projects Peter Jacques Band, Macho and Revanche. Arrangements on Caprice are a full Euro-disco sound with plenty of strings and lyrical vocals. A nice outline of Petrus’ ability to create with the changes in dance music as he did in the early 80’s with disco funk bands Change and B.B. and Q Band. “Shame and Scandal In The Family” is a song written in the 1940’s by a Calypso singer named Sir Lancelot and has since become a novelty standard throughout time. This disco cover remains full of the Calypso feel; with plenty of percussion and the new disco female ensemble to outline the dilemma. I have taken the album version of “Shame And Scandal In The Family” and have created a new ReStructure Mix using the existing percussion to break it into a new layout. There are a few new breaks and rearranging of segments.
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Nothing Compares 2 U - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chyp-Notic Chyp-Notic is Euro-dance group from Germany whose 1990 cover of Sinead O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U” brought a new energy and groove to the moody heartbreak song. The band is Vlad Mint, Jan Erik and Walter Bee. The 90’s swing beat takes the energy into a melodic phase which was appropriate for the track and time period. The song did very well in clubs and received some radio play as well as set the group up for a readying follow up for dancers. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of Chyp-Notic’s “Nothing Compares 2 U” and reworked the drums and airy keyboards into this new ReStructure Mix. It pulls more of the beats with a few edits and makes way to a touch of the original. |
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Super Trouper - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - ABBA ABBA was the 70’s soundtrack on a level of pop-disco communication. Their existence in pop-culture during the period was a reflection of a new generation and their need to connect through music and the dance experience. Not only was the time a unique connection to a freedom of expression but also crescendo which eventually faded. Thanks to bands like ABBA the experience will never be repeated again even though it is imitated and renewed. This was a magic that the seventies holds to itself. “Super Trouper” is from ABBA’s 1980 project with the same name. The song has an eerie feel of a love growing weaker as the distance is expressed. It was a single that was a full-on ABBA experience and still remains one of their beautiful tracks. I have taken the album version of “Super Trouper” along with pieces of the instrumental and recreated a new ReStructure Mix for the bands nuance. There is more of a dub feel to the arrangement and flows to a fade out from the original opening chorus. |
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Love Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Punch Punch is a German synth-pop group from producer Rainer Streubel. Their 1985 single “Love Me” is one of the high energy favorites of the period and flows with heavy synthesizers and plenty of electronic percussion to work any dance floor waiting. The track has a sweet melodic chorus which plays off well to its all most nu-wave vocal during the verses. It is one high energy piece that pounds a “punch” if you will pardon the pun. I have taken the 12” versions of “Love Me” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix to bring this gem back to mind. The arrangement is looped in parts and the guts of the song are broken into new breaks. |
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Meat The Beat - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - East Coast East Coast is a disco ensemble from producer Charlie Wallert from 1979. Their dance floor hit “The Rock:” from 1978 generated the album project and gave us a few new pieces to move to during the peak of disco. “Meat The Beat” is a smooth track very similar to “The Rock” with a bit more energy to its sound. The funky vocal is a disco must and the 40’s-esque riff is tasty. One of the numbers that I always wished to play yet the album version was engineered much too low so this new version levels it out for that purpose. I have taken the album version of “Meat The Beat” from East Coast and have given it a new ReStructure Mix. The hand claps are used in and out of this new mix and the excitement is prolonged. |
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Don't You Want To Feel It (For Yourself) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stacy Lattisaw Stacy Lattisaw is the answer to 80’s retro funk! Her music in the early 80’s sound was the will of producer Narada Michael Walden (“I Don’t Want Nobody Else (To Dance With You)”, “Tonight I’m Alright”) along with Stacy’s sweet child-like vocal are irresistible. “Don’t You Want To Feel It (For Yourself)” is a track from the 1980 album “Let Me Be Your Angel” and has some fantastic hooks and vocals from Lattisaw and Narada. It was one of the pieces I would play as an alternative to the huge hits “Dynamite” and “Jump To The Beat” from the same project. I have taken the album version of “Don’t You Want To Feel It (For Yourself)” and worked a new ReStructure Mix for an old-school homage which amended the disco legacy in the early 80s. |
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Like A Prayer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madonna Madonna set many paths on the dance floor and much controversy with intent for creativity and reaction. “Like A Prayer” is her 1989 track from the project by the same name – co-produced by Patrick Leonard. The track is one of the dance floor modifiers of its time thanks to remix alternatives from Shep Pettibone. The uplifting chorus is one of the driving factors in this classic and will continue to move souls and feet. I have taken the US 12” versions and created a new ReStructure Mix with more of each interpretation working itself with some new layering and looping. This mix gives an alternative intro and fades out. |
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Give It To Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Celi Bee Celi Bee is a disco artist from Puerto Rico who brought flight to disco music with her two albums “Fly Me On The Wings Of Love” and “Blow My Mind” – produced by Pepe Luis Soto. “Give It To Me” is her 1979 track from the “Blow My Mind” project and features the sound that Celi Bee was best performing and known for. A sweet and furious disco track which plays out with plenty of bongos and percussion along with Celi Bee’s irresistible vocal. I have taken the album version of “Give It To Me” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix with more drum and percussion added to make this little dessert sweeter. A slight mash up with the Mary Jane Girls in injected for fun. |
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Double Or Nothing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lani Hall Lani Hall is a vocalist who began a recording career in the early 70’s. She is also the wife of Herb Alpert and also appeared in the band Sergio Mendes & Brazil ’66. Her 1979 album “Double Or Nothing” contained the title track which was released as a disco single and did fairly well for the time where an over saturation of dance music was pumping out of record labels. The piece is a nice sultry number where Lani exclaims that one night stands are not where she is coming from. I have taken the 12” version of “Double Or Nothing” and created a new ReStructure Mix adding some new elements to give confidence to the track. The chorus is maintained in new segments to make this one as exciting as it was when released. |
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Into The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol Hahn Carol Hahn is a vocalist who brought new hope to the early 80’s dance scene. Her vocal is the essential disco femme building the sultry sound of the nightlife into a fantasy realm of dancing. Her 1983 hit “Into The Night” marked a special moment for myself as disco music had shifted to electronic productions this one brought a heavy dose of percussion and a sweet calling from Carol’s wonderful vocal. It is the synth-pop era moving into a new disco era. I have taken the 12” version of “Into The Night” and utilized all four versions into a new ReStructure Mix with a new arrangement for the verses and Carol’s beautiful vocal performance. |
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Go Go Yellow Screen - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Digital Emotion Digital Emotion is a Dutch electronic dance group featuring Cickie De Beer, Jean François Colombo and Myrna Balrak. Produced by Adams & Fleisner (Geertjan Hessing, Aart Mol, Erwin van Prehn, Cees Bergman and Elmer Veerhoff also known as Cat Music on the Dutch dance label, Break Records. The early 80’s created a new flow of electronic productions following the disco era of full orchestral arrangements and layered band ensembles. The laid out groove was a hardcore keyboard with sequencers painting the rhythms. I have taken the 12” version of “Go Go Yellow Screen” and recreated a new soulful edition of this high-energy/electronic verse. Using pieces of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles soul classic to guide it. |
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I (Who Have Nothing) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester Sylvester is a disco artist who helped pave the road to diversity and talent. His 1979 project “Stars” is a tour de force of this man’s aura and presence. In this project a cover of the Lieber and Stoller classic “I (Who Have Nothing)” is taken to new heights in a production by Harvey Fuqua and backing vocals from Ms. Martha Wash. This one is a blockbuster for the dance floor to take into a new emotion state and work from beginning to end. One of the most powerful experiences in the disco repertoire. I have taken the 12” long version and recreated a new ReStructure Mix for a salute to Sylvester and also a dedication to my husband, Ken Emmons who holds this one as a top favorite and also giving me the love and freedom to create. |
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Crazy Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Alton McClain & Destiny Alton McClain & Destiny is a trio from 1978 and features Alton McClain, D'Marie Warren and Robyrda Stiger. Their first project featured the big dance hit, “It Must Be Love” – produced by Frank Wilson (Four Tops, Diana Ross, Eddie Kendricks, Cheryl Barnes, Lenny Williams). “Crazy Love” is the second single from the project and displays a soulful harmony representing a romance which defies the rules of love and celebrates in the moment. It is one of the uplifting numbers which I have always admired and one which many find a milestone for this trio. I have taken the 12” version of “Crazy Love” which was remixed by Jim Burgess and in his monumental style. I have taken the bongo tracks and a few new samples to enhance this ReStructure Mix for a new experience. The beautiful strings play an important and extended play here. |
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Midnight Rendezvous - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tasha Thomas Tasha Thomas is a singer/performer whose career includes backing recording sessions for Louis Armstrong, Stevie Wonder, Cat Stevens and Jim Croce. Her stage career includes the Broadway production of “The Wiz” where she played “Aunt Em” in the mid-70’s. “Midnight Rendezvous’ is her 1979 disco album produced by James R. Glazer and Peter Rugle. The title track is an oasis of sensual love set to a disco beat. One of genuine sounds of the disco era and a vocal that flows with a soulful whimsical edge. I have taken the 12” version of “Midnight Rendezvous” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix using the mysterious horns and percussion to drive this new piece. I have added a delayed drum track to give it a new pace in segments. |
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Theme from S.W.A.T. - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rhythm Heritage Rhythm Heritage is funky/soul and disco ensemble lead by Steve Barri (“Love Pains” by Yvonne Elliman) and Michael Omartian (“Cats Without Claws” project by Donna Summer). Their big 1975 disco hit “Theme from S.W.A.T.” is reminiscent of a time when disco ruled the charts as many movie themes and television show themes were brought on to the dance floor. This one pounds out the composition by Barry De Vorzon in a tambourine shakin’ groove. A big classic and still makes the mirror ball shake! I have taken the album version of “Theme from S.W.A.T.” and beefed it up for this ReStructure Mix with some conga effects and more of those funky wah-wah guitars. It works over and over again with several new breaks. |
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Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - C + C Music Factory C + C Music Factory is David Cole, Robert Clivillés, Freedom Williams, and Martha Wash in their initial prime with their big dance hit, “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” from 1990. A transition from the deep house movement of the late 80’s to the hardcore street beats in celebration of dance floors and their purpose. A new era of dance music was beginning from where the disco groove of the early 70’s began. Innovative beats by Cole and Clivillés made the 90’s dance scene a new experience and continued the evolution of disco music once again. Featured vocals by Martha Wash (Two Tons ‘O Fun, Sylvester) make this one more than iconic. I have taken the 12” extended and instrumental versions of “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix with a pattern that utilizes the riffs to a tea. It flows with some classic riffs from Chic – from one innovative disco sound to the new one of the 90’s. |
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Coco Kane - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - El Coco El Coco is a studio disco project from W. Michael Lewis and Laurin Rinder who worked feverously in the mid and late 70’s to bring dance floors fascinating grooves. Their 1978 album “Dancing In Paradise” is an iconic project for Rinder and Lewis when all of their experience at creating music for dancers was achieved full-scale. “Coco Kane” is a track from the project and features on vocals – Alex Brown, Merria Ross and Mortonette Jenkins. This slight take on the high of the 70’s is one of the driving numbers with the classic El Coco sound featuring keyboards jumping in and out of strings and bass. I have taken the album version of “Coco Kane” and added a new ingredient of loop ology and samples to recreate this ReStructure Mix. The keyboard riffs are edited and reassembled to make this experience a new high! |
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Frisco Disco - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eastside Connection Eastside Connection is a disco group produced by Eddie Davis and released several early projects from 1976 through 1979 and is one of the early bands creating underground disco music. “Frisco Disco” is their 1978 single which featured a colored spin-wheel vinyl. The song has a full disco arrangement along with a travel theme which moves though out the mix. A favorite among many disco audiophiles and a complete trip back to the sound of the early disco movement, I have taken the 12” version of “Frisco Disco” and used pieces of the groove to recreate a new ReStructure Mix. There is some added percussion from a classic by AKB to give the song a new dimension. |
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The Belle of St. Mark - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sheila E. Sheila Escovedo is an 80’s performer who set dance floors on fire with her massive percussion and drum talents. Best known with her affiliation with the artist, Prince and their sound which is one that lasted throughout the 80’s. “The Belle of St. Mark” is a track from her 1984 album “In The Glamorous Life” and is one of the energy peaking songs of the time. It is one which swept dance floors with layers of bongos and assorted percussion with a fascinating turn on 80’s dance music. One of my favorites from Sheila E. and another mark in the time where dance music was a celebration. I have taken the 12” remix of “The Belle of St. Mark” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix with a long drawn out intro and fade. It is again the heavy percussion treat for those who like that Afro-Cuban sound. |
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System - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Force Legato Force Legato is Oliver Lieb and Torsten Fenslau. Their single from 1989 is a techno piece with some wonderful variations on several remixes and releases. The focus on “System” is the hardcore techno edge which works in and out like a factory at peak hour. The light feel of the number is much like the new age influence and ambient of the 90’s. I have taken the 12” versions of “System” from “The Remixes” edition and reworked the full techno version and funky street beat mix into a new ReStructure Mix. The hint of Amanda Lear in the original is taken to a new level with more of her classic “Follow Me” injected. |
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Let's Groove - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Earth, Wind and Fire EWF is a soul/funk band discovered by Maurice White in the early seventies and evolved as one of the innovative and a powerful musical presence. Their 1981 album titled “Raise” is one of the 80’s prized releases with the track “Let’s Groove” as its first single. The funk driven dance piece plays out with more of the pump and soul that disco music had moved into in the early 80’s. A big hit for EWF and also one that resonates like a party favor! I have taken the 12” remix version of “Let’s Groove” and recreated a funk-fest for this ReStructure Mix with more of the beats and horns exclaiming the best of this number. It has a longer duration and some loop effects to bring this type of energy back. |
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Give Me Your Body - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dana Kay Dana Kay is a German disco artist who released a single titled “Give Me Your Body” in 1988 – produced by Jorg Schoch (Back To Fun). The track is an Italodance flavor with a full electronic production and the sensual vocals of Dana lifting the track into several crescendos. The single did well for me on several levels during early evening high energy sets and also a nice after hour mood. I have always enjoyed this song and the uplifting sensuality of its theme. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Give Me Your Body” and reworked a ReStructure Mix for a revisit to the powerful Italo influence on dance music in the mid and late 80’s. It is still a breath of fresh air when doused with a classic rock vocal piece. |
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Down and Counting - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Claudja Barry What would disco music do without Claudja Barry? Her career has delivered the biggest dance floor movers and innovators in disco history. Along with producer Jurgen Korduletsh and Munich musicians of the disco era they created disco hits “Boogie Woogie Dancin’ Shoes”, “Sweet Dynamite”, “Work Me Over” (with Bobby Orlando), “Feel and Fire” and many more. “Down and Counting” is her 1986 release from her album “I, Claudja” and is one of the sample delicacies of the time period. Along with Claudja’s presence this one was always dangerous. I have taken the 12” vocal and dub to recreate a new ReStructure Mix for this classic. It maintains the feel of the original with a few new twists and turns – and a surprise visit from one of Claudja’s big disco hits. |
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I'll Be Holdin' On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - DSK with Christine Wiltshire DSK is a house project from Joe Stone, Larry Davis and Paul Klein of Hot Productions during the early 90’s house boom. The sound of heavy bass booming and that classic piano/keyboard riff emulating a chase was one fulfilling dance recipe. “I’ll Be Holdin’ On” is their single from 1992 and features the vocals of disco chanteuse Christine Wiltshire (Poussez!, Musique, Revanche, Phreek, Class Action, Center Stage, Aural Exciters). This love song is one of my all-time favorite house grooves and with Wiltshire’s sensual vocal this one is not only an anthem, but a must. It flows like Wiltshire’s classic “Summer Love” from Musique (Patrick Adams). I have taken the 12” vocal and dub to recreate a new ReStructure Mix of “I’ll Keep Holdin’ On” and mark this piece again. The rhythm plays out like the original house arrangement with a few new breaks and surprises. Thanks to the very talented and respected Christine Wiltshire for her energy and love and dedication to dance music throughout the years. |
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No Tengo Tiempo (Con Los Dedos De Una Mano) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Azul y Negro Azul y Negro is Carlos García Vaso & Joaquín Montoya. A duo which brought the 80’s synth-pop dance movement into a hard hitting arena with their heavy disco beats and colorful keyboard compositions. “The Night” is one of their first big high energy tracks to introduce them in 1982 and from there on it was smooth sailing to hear their energy and somewhat distant themes and electronic numbers. “No Tengo Tiempo (Con los dedos de una mano)” is another fast moving high-energy piece that always worked my mind into a frenzy with the dub-like effects and rolling bass synthesizers. It is still a favorite and one that once it is heard – it is hard to get out of your head. I have taken the 12” version of “No Tengo Tiempo (Con los dedos de una mano)” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix with a new fade-in and fade out. There are longer movements to please both the feet and head. |
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Tenebre - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Simonetti / Pignatelli / Morante “Tenebre” is an 80’s horror film from Italian director Dario Argento (“Suspiria”) and one of the challenges of not only cinema but also soundtracks once again as he achieved with “Suspiria” with Goblln. Claudio Simonetti, Fabio Pignatelli and Massimo Morante the theme from Argento’s “Tenebre” is disco-fied for a heavy underground feel in this Italo-disco piece. It is full of creeps and chills as the focus of most of this masters projects. I have taken the 12” version of “Tenebre” along with beat pieces from the B-side titled “Flashing” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix for a new mix. It is drawn out into beats and those haunting keyboards. |
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A-Freak-A - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lemon Lemon is a studio disco project from producer Kenny Lehman (Rhetta Hughes, Hi-Tension, Chic) and features Luther Vandross, David Lasley, Diva Gray and Gordon Grody on vocals. Their self-titled album was one of the big 1978 surprises as it gave a laid back groove of disco tracks with a funky flair. “A-Freak-A” is the second release from this project following “Freak On” and is one of the anthems of the late 70’s as the “freak” trend of motifs collected, I have taken the album version of “A-Freak-A” and transformed pieces of the groove and vocals into a new ReStructure Mix. The rhythm guitars are played out in many variations in this remix and new drums are added to bring it to a new climax. |
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God Don't Like Ugly - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Roberta Flack Roberta Flack is a soul angel. Her voice throughout the 70’s brought love, peace and comfort. Her track “God Don’t Like Ugly” is from her 1979 album “Roberta Flack featuring Donny Hathaway” produced by Eric Mercury and Roberta – and written by Gwen Guthrie. It is a wonderful piece with a valuable lesson about the light of right and wrong in love. It is also an opportunity to hear Roberta’s beautiful vocals in a dance number with her own essence. I have taken the album version of “God Don’t Like Ugly” and transformed the drama into a new ReStructure Mix. It is extended on both start and end and gives way to a more dub-like feel. |
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D.I.S.C.O. - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Anti Rock Anti Rock is a European Disco project from producer Jacques Fred Petrus (Peter Jacques Band, Revanche, Caprice, Change, B.B. & Q. Band, Macho). This cover of the 1979 anthem by Ottawan track “D.I.S.C.O.” brings the song into a full and rich percussion driven production with more of the Calypso flavor per beat. It is more like a Carnival celebration with the floats full of mirror balls and confetti. A nice cover with Jacques bringing his production genius again to the forefront. I have taken the 12” vocal, dub and radio versions of Anti Rock’s “D.I.S.C.O.” into a new sparkling ReStructure Mix with the pieces of the puzzle which make the song go boom. It is a wonderful opportunity again to pay tribute to Mr. Jacques Fred Petrus and the disco music he has left behind. |
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That Burning Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Edmund Sylvers Edmund Sylvers is a member of The Sylvers and provided the lead vocals for top hits “Hot Line” and “Boogie Fever”. His career lead into a solo album from 1980 with a track titled “That Burning Love” which is an outline for the retro-funk of today with artist like Bruno Mars. The album was released on Casablanca Records and produced by Benjamin F. Wright. Although the track did not receive much recognition in its time it still has some of the production and edge that bring to mind the mature funk of the time. I have taken the album version of “That Burning Love”: for this ReStructure Mix and set a new fire to this fantastic love song. It has samples of a classic 80’s Jackson number which help to bring out some of the natural elements. |
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Most Of All - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gloria Gaynor Gloria Gaynor is the Queen of Discoland and made her mark in the mid and late 70’s with many albums and tracks which brought dancers into a kingdom of music and the groove. Her vocal presence is soulful and glamorous with the sparkle which made the 70’s a magical place. Along with disco producer Gregg Diamond who also presented us with classic disco tracks from his projects Bionic Boogie, Hardware, Starcruiser and Andrea True Connection another beautiful disco classic remains in the hall of fame: “Most Of All”. A swirling disco groove with a sound which Diamond created with early productions from Andrea True like “Fill Me Up (Heart To Heart)” which lay out a sweet funky edge with the sophisticated flavor of disco music. I have taken the 12” version of “Most Of All” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix to salute the sound of Gloria and Gregg Diamond together pacing the disco trend of the time into gold. This is one of those dedications to the eternal sound which made the 70’s come alive again with music. |
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It Takes Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Greg Perry Greg Perry is a songwriter, producer and singer who began his recording career in the late 60’s. He eventually became one of Casablanca Records artists in the mid-70’s which lead him to a single from 1982 titled “It Takes Heart” which is an uplifting track about finding the strength within one’s self to overcome life’s obstacles. It was one of the powerful tracks I found for the time and still rings out a great message. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “It Takes Heart” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with an easier into to blend and a fade out. It is one of my favorite soul-building songs so much effort is retained in Greg’s wonderful vocals and lyrics. |
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Addicted To The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lipps Inc. Lipps Inc. is a disco band from producer and genius Steve Greenberg and the vocals of Cynthia Johnson – with the combination of both talents the classic “Funkytown” was created. One of the Casablanca Records legacies and great moments in music history. “Addicted To The Night” is from the 1983 album “4” which is their fourth project and features the vocals of Margaret Cox and Melanie Rosales. A fast spinning track that caused quite some motion on dance floors during the early 80’s. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Addicted To The Night” and transformed the fast swirling number into new ReStructure Mix. I stretched out the mix into a slower pace of energy and played with the vocals to create a new edge. |
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Deep In The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stephanie Wells Stephanie Wells is a Canadian disco project from producers Gino D' Orazio and Tony Bentivegna who also gave us Motion, Nightlife Unlimited, Blue Laser and Ladies Choice. During the early 80’s the electronic disco sound became the leading edge on dance floors and a return to a more underground and simpler arrangement. “Deep In The Night” is a track from Stephanie Wells’ 1983 project “Fools In Love”. It is the concoction which flows throughout this project which is dreamlike and a focus on the love aspect of disco music. The track has always been a favorite of mine since it is more of an underground feel or after-hours set track. I have taken the album version of “Deep In The Night” and reworked a new street beat under this ReStructure Mix. It is transformed from a slight high energy mood into a hard hitting beat box number. |
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Dance Your Ass Off - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bohannon Hamilton Bohannon is one of the early disco artists and producers who learned to talk to the disco beat. His music was a deeply infectious experience and continues to bring the 70’s feeling back with tracks like “Let’s Start The Dance” and “Dance Your Ass Off”. The 1976 album titled “Dance Your Ass Off” signaled a soulful side to disco music. The track became an instant hit on dance floors and has lasted till today. I have taken the album version of “Dance Your Ass Off” and play it out in the ReStructure Mix fashion for this remix. It uses “Let’s Start The Dance” to beef up the beat and remind us of the power of Bohannon. |
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Touch My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Danuta Danuta is a singer from Poland who recorded several Italo-disco tracks during the late 80’s. Her vocals project the sensual disco feel with the yearning of love and romance which placed a nice feel for this project titled “Touch My Heart” from 1987 – produced by Gerd Rochel. It is a climatic dance number in the Italo-disco style derived from the early 80’s and many German dance productions with a pounding bass beat and the rolling keyboards. I have taken the 12” version of “Touch My Heart”: and recreated the dreamy sound again with a new intro and some additional drums in this ReStructure Mix. The choruses still shimmer with the lovely voice of Danuta and the fade provides nice echoes to the emotion. |
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Knock Me Out - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Gary's Gang Gary’s Gang is a disco group lead by Joe Tucci (Eric Matthew) and Joseph Tucci and is one of the disco bands of the moment when it comes to their arrival. Their huge hit “Keep On Dancing” from 1978 is one of the statements made on the dance floor which helped to create all of the excitement that disco music was. “Knock Me Out” is their single from 1982 and continues their sound in a hard hitting manner. One of the nice dance numbers with their mellow but rhythmic edge. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental versions of “Knock Me Out” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with a taste of their classic track “Keep On Dancing” and also a new re-arrangement. It blends the beats with the infectious disco sound that Gary’s Gang is. |
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Together Forever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jennifer Bell Jennifer Bell (Anya Mahnken) is a vocalist who reprised the 1988 Rick Astley dance classic later the same year along with producer Patic Perquee (Nicky Onidis, Hot Shot). This version is quite identical to the Stock, Aitken and Waterman production with the exception of Jennifer’s very sweet and direct vocal. A big surprise for many who loved the original and always a floor packer for me. I have taken the 12” version of Jennifer Bell’s “Together Forever” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with a surprise from a classic musical added. It is sheer fun and fantasy this time around in “dub-time”. |
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Don't Give Your Love (So Easily) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kimyla Kimyla is a high energy disco project from producers Bobby Orlando and Don Oriolo and features the rolling synthesizer work and heavy drum percussion that made a statement for Orlando in the 80’s. It was his new formula that put the break before the chorus or verse and dance floors of the time period ate it up. “Don’t Give Your Love (So Easily)” is one of the most powerful pieces from Orlando and pulses out over and over with the begging female chorus with such distinction and emotion. It is one of my favorites of the dance period and brings back memories of crowded dance floors moving furiously to catch up with the rhythm. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Don’t Give Your Love (So Easily)” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with more of that percussion divided into more parts and the chorus chopped and served into more breaks. |
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Malagueña - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pico Pico is a disco project from producer Mort Garson and on the classic disco label West End Records from 1979. This disco-fied take on the Mexican classic is an underground feel with the mix by Studio 54 DJ Manny Slali. A nice and clever arrangement with the Latin sound intact with much of Garson’s electronic vibe accompanying the glide along. Many may remember Mort Garson’s “Disco UFO” from 1978 by Captain D.J. where he placed his heavy sequencers to the test along with a funky rap – this is a further journey onto the disco dance floors for his talent. I have taken the 12” version of “Malagueña” and recreated a ReStructure Mix for the flamenco dancer in us all. It plays out with a touch of the version by Western Horizon for a real dive into the Latin edge. |
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I'm Not In Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - George Monroe George Monroe is a German artist produced by Theo Werdin (Hubert Kah, Scott Marlowe) with a cover of 10cc’s rock classic “I’m Not In Love”. This single from 1987 is done in a high energy fashion that is dreamy and moody – the way the original transpires. A wonderful lead vocal brings this 80’s dance track to the top as it follows closely the 10cc version with a dance rhythm added. It was one of the big hits for my club for high energy sets and remains one of my favorites for the time period. I have taken the 12” version of George Monroe’s “I’m Not In Love” and recreated a ReStructure Mix for a new spin on this underground classic. A under beat is added which is from a Ritchie Family disco classic to give more of a light energy. |
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My Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cruisin' Gang Cruisin’ Gang is an Italo-disco project from Cruisin' Records and are one of the unique sounds of the Italo-disco period of the early 80’s. “My Man” is their single from 1983 from the project titled “Chinatown” and is one of the loveliest dance tracks set to a pumping beat. The synthetic mandolin strings are a romantic interlude and along with the dreamy vocals of Laura Fadinger, Sabrina Morroya and Ombretta Marsigli this piece is a beautiful sensation. A great early evening or after hours number it always seems to create its own ambiance. I have taken the 12” version of “My Man” and reweaved a ReStructure Mix using the pumping beats and bass with some new arrangement and breaks. There is some percussion fills added to fade out with more of a dance legato. |
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City of Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rational Youth Rational Youth is Kevin Komoda, Bill Vorn, and Tracy Howe – a synth-pop band from the 80’s who were influenced by the electronic sound of bands like Kraftwerk. Their 1982 album titled “Cold War Night Life” was produced by disco producer Pat Deserio who also gave us Bombers, Bob-A-Rella, Kebekelektrek and Dogs of War. The single “City Of Night” is the big release and dance floor hit from the project which created a fast paced move into a high energy/electronic feel. It is a nice demonstration of the nu-wave influence on the dance scene of the early 80’s yet following closely the club sound with more emphasis on the dance edge. I have taken the 12” version of “City Of Night” and reweaved a fast paced ReStructure Mix utilizing the 2 part keyboard sequencer and the vocoder effects. A small touch of a Donna Summer classic is added to give the “night” more excitement. |
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Get Here - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Linda Imperial Linda Imperial moved into the dance music scene with the group Loverde (“Die Hard Lover”) in 1982 and moved onto a solo career in 1985 with her club hit “Stranger”. Since then Linda has given dance floors many opportunities to share her beautiful vocals in many flavors of high energy dance music including her tracks “Fire”, “Killing Me Softly”, and a fabulous cover of “Where The Boys Are” in 1998. On the classic San Francisco label Megatone Records and along with pioneer disco artist and producer Ernest Kohl (“Follow Your Heart”) brought a roaring translation of Oleta Adams “Get Here” in 1993. This one is an amazing arrangement and placement for Linda’s always beautiful delivery into a fascination of love and desire. It was one of the big hits for my club for months and remained one of my personal favorites. It is high energy taking a transition to a look back at what made dance music great – a wonderful full production and a fabulous diva. I have taken the 12” version of Linda’s “Get Here” and weaved a new ReStructure Mix and focused on breaking down the lovely lyrics for a tease in and out. There is a new rhythm track to outline the melodic feel of the song and a fade. This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ms. Linda Imperial and the incredible Mr. Ernest Kohl for the contributions to dance music throughout the years. |
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Movie Queen - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Harlow Harlow is Joanne Perica, Johanna Vanderkley and Linda Hanchar – a trio whose early 80’s projects helped to keep the disco chorus arrangement alive. Their big club hit “Take Off” from the album “Taking Off” from 1980 is a classic beyond the disco era and contains all of the magic that is disco music. “Movie Queen” is another track from the project which was produced by Alex Alexander, Bertch Alyanak and Mike Alyanak. This piece is another touch of disco fantasy which weaves the dream of the Hollywood fame and fortune with all of the struggle and power. It was another number from the album that outlines this ensemble created so beautifully. I have taken the album version of “Movie Queen” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with more of a downbeat and a few percussion effects to give it a boost. It remains true to the original with more of a lengthy feel and a fade out. |
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I'm So Excited - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pointer Sisters Pointer Sisters are Anita Pointer, June Pointer and Ruth Pointer – a trio who set the 80’s on fire with their music and exciting stage presence. It was a festive 80’s which brought tracks like “I’m So Excited” alive from their 1982 album by the same name. Produced by Richard Perry and delivered with their soulful and motivated vocals. I have taken the 12” version of “I’m So Excited” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix to bring back the colorful 80’s and the uplifting feel of the music. |
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Let's Go On Vacation - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sister Sledge Sister Sledge are Debbie Sledge, Joni Sledge, Kathy Sledge and Kim Sledge – and best known for their huge 1978 dance floor hit “We Are Family” brought them success in club land. Their production moved into the arena of Nile Rogers and Bernard Edwards of Chic success and gave the girls a new sound and image. Their 1980 album “Love Somebody Today” featured the track “Let’s Go On Vacation” which plays out in the easy groove of the Chic-sound with the ladies serenading a love in need of some time to grow from subtle lull. It is a beautiful piece and becomes more and more alluring with the melody and sweetness. I have taken the album version of “Let’s Go On Vacation” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with a new Calypso percussion outline. The trip here is a new destination and plays out with the same energy with just a new adjustment for the hips and feet. |
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Discoland - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Quartz Quartz is Didier Plus, Laurent Taieb and Patrick Langlade – a trio whose two projects from the late 70’s brought an alternative electronic new-age feel to the disco beat. Their big disco classic “Beyond The Clouds” from 1978 is one of the innovative sounds that echo this disco machine. “Discoland” is from their 1979 follow up album “Camel In The City” which plays out the familiar sound of keyboards accenting a sequencer of rolling bass and trickling arpeggios. One of the familiar sounds created also from the band Space from the same period – these projects are the early techno sounds of dance music. I have taken the album version of “Discoland” and created a frantic ReStructure Mix with added percussion and a verge of extended breaks and effects. The trip here is more of an ear experience however a dance floor with love for the edge of electronics may find it hard to remain still. |
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Theme from Shaft - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Isaac Hayes Isaac Hayes is one of soul/funk and disco music’s leading talents. His productions have given way to a sound which helped to provide a gateway to a full orchestration of dance music along with the touch of funk and soul which made the 70’s the “disco era”. His 1971 score to the film “Shaft” is a classic among audiophiles around the world with its funky “wah-wah” guitar riff and its striking string arrangement. It lives on today on its own merit by taking the movement of the time and making it his own. I have taken the album version of “Theme from Shaft” and rewired a ReStructure Mix making a mild new escapade for the classic. Adding a new drum track and looping some of the familiar pieces which make this one an icon for the 70’s. |
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Beat It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Michael Jackson Michael Jackson’s huge 1982 album “Thriller” is the symbol of pop-supreme achievements. Produced by Quincy Jones and outlined by some the industry’s most talented musicians and writers this project made Michael an icon in his own time. “Beat It” is a self-penned number from Jackson who performs this one like a rock-classic and makes a pop-explosion in the process. One of the 80’s most memorable moments is this marker and it lives on as the legacy of this talented man is constantly recovered. I have taken the album and instrumental version of “Beat It” and reassembled a new ReStructure Mix in a new fashion to pull it together in a whole new way. There a few new breaks and breakdowns to give the stage again that glimmer that Jackson presented. |
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Nervous - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Triple G Triple G is an electronic dance project from producer Cay Hume – who also gave us K.B. Caps, Margie M., T. Ark and Fantasy Ten. His project of Triple G incorporates vocals from high energy artist Mike Mareen (“Love Spy”) and a touch of “Funkytown”-like riffs. This one pulsates in and out like a factory working the beat into a frenzy. The light and fantasy edge to the vocals are much like a dream-like state that the music pulls you into. This one was always a favorite of mine and displays the direction of a new beat deep bass line with the Italo-disco sound. I have taken the vocal and dub of “Nervous” 12” single and recreated a shaky ReStructure Mix assisted by a sample from Susan Hayward from “Valley Of The Dolls”. The rewinding of this one gives way to more energy and looping to bring it all together in a new way. |
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Kiss Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tin Tin Tin Tin is a band formed by Stephen Duffy (formerly of Dexy's Midnight Runners). His 1982 single “Kiss Me” was an 80’s dance hit when it was placed under the stylus’ in DJ booths. The synth-pop track is one of the big surprises during the early 80’s when a shift in the sound of dance floors began. Tin Tin is the drop line for the sound of electronic music phase of the time period and makes a strong statement with drums and synthesizers. I have taken the 12” remixes of “Kiss Me” and reworked the nard hitting drums into a new ReStructure Mix for a tribute to the 80’s sound. More of the master phrase is planted and the keyboards climb higher as the original. |
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Popcorn - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pop Cycles Pop Cycles is an electronic disco project from producer Dominic Sciullo who transforms the 1972 pop-classic “Popcorn” by Hot Butter into an 80’s dance gem. This production emphasizes its work on the rolling synthesizers and adds a touch of galactic scenes to add to the mystic of this hypnotic number. It is executed as an Italo-disco arrangement in the early 80’s would lay out with a touch more. I have taken the 12” version and dub of Pop Cycles cover of “Popcorn” and segments of the original to create this ReStructure Mix to keep this classic alive. It uses more looping and flash-edits to recreate a new treat. |
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Disco's My Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Boogie People Boogie People is a Canadian disco ensemble lead by producers Dominic Sciullo (Montreal, Nancy Martin) and Vincent Clambrone (Tamara Lorninz, Claudia Hart) – and was a new breed of disco music during the early 80’s. Their album titled “Boogie People” from 1979 is one of the classic shifts from the funk-groove of mid-70’s dance music to a more high energy flowing sound. “Disco’s My Life” is a mini-anthem which projects the time and place of dance floor during the peak of the late 70’s where disco music reined and made many feet happy. It is sung by Silvie Doucet and Tiziana Bibbo in a fashion that plays out in every way that disco music spoke. I have taken the 12” version of “Disco’s My Life” and played out another dub-like ReStructure Mix. There is more of the fantasy of the disco dance floor where many were lost in during the wave.
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Tonite - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sho Nuff Sho Nuff is Al Bell III, Bruce Means, Freddie Young, James Lewis, Lawrence Lewis and Lyn Chambers – a funk/disco band from the late 70’s throughout the mid-80’s. Their music is a definite move from the disco cream to a new brand of 80’s dance with more of a band feel. “Tonite” is from their 1980 album by the same name and is a memorable piece that is a touch of that dreamy groove with a nice underground feel. The song was recorded again by Fern Kinney under the title “Love Me Tonite” the following year which is the version that many disco audiophiles may remember most. A beautiful piece done here with a lovely arrangement and production. I have taken the album version along with the reprise track of “Tonite” and reworked a ReStructure Mix for those who clamor for that funky mood with a love injection. I have worked more of the drums into the verse along with a few new breaks. |
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Pillow Talk - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lustt Lustt is a disco project from producers Anand Maharajh and Paul Klein who gave us many high energy and electronic funk tracks during the early and mid-80’s. This cover of Sylvia’s disco/soul classic from 1973 is a high energy must. It captures the sensuality and erotic sound of the original with the electronic pulsing of a new sound for the 80’s. With the original version possibly a light influence on Donna Summer’s “Love To Love You Baby” this one pulsates as closely to it. The production keeps a close interpretation with only a few new throbbing synthesizers and a percussion break. An exciting cover of a classic. I have taken the 12” vocal and dub of Lustt’s “Pillow Talk” and reworked a new ReStructure Mix that plays out more in a playful manner. More edits with the verses and also a couple of new bongo breaks. |
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Under My Thumb - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fast Radio Fast Radio is a dance project from Guy Ruvolo who also gave us Carol Cooper (“Tunnel Of Love”) and TGB. This early high energy cover of The Rolling Stones rock-classic is a fast moving disco electro number. Vocals sound a bit like a chorus of sassy chorus gals from the 50’s rock n’ roll period in full camp. The rolling synthesizers and hard hitting choruses make this one quite fun. I have taken the 12” vocal and dub to recreate another ReStructure Mix to feed those high energy fans a new recipe. A touch of the original is added to give this one a new road to rock heaven! |
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Desire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Randy Crawford Randy Crawford is a jazz/soul vocalist who made the 1979 track “Street Life” by The Crusaders an instant classic with her emotional and unique vocal. Her contributions to the dance floor scene also include “Nightline” from 1983 and “Desire” from 1986 which is produced and written by Reggie Lucas who also gave us great dance pieces from Stephanie Mills, Mtume and Phyllis Hyman. “Desire” is a yearning love song put to a heavy percussive and funk bass track which is more of what dance floors were moving to during the early 80’s. This one was always a favorite as Randy always sets my heart in the right direction with her emotion and aura. I have taken the 12” vocal, instrumental and drum beats of “Desire” to set a new ReStructure Mix afire. It has a synthesized into for the fantasy and need portrayed in the song. It leaves Randy in a clear stage of diva power where she belongs. |
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In The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Daydream Daydream is an Italo-disco project from Spain on Blanco Y Negro Records from 1986 and features members Irene César, Mónica Cesar and Pedro Morales. A delivery in the classic Italo-disco sound with a light touch of energy. “In The Night” is a serenade with a sweetness that captures the disco aura with a nice resonance and rolling power. It is one during the mid-80’s which drew my heart back into the early days of Italo-disco where the fantasy is captured nicely and takes the dance floor into an almost dreamy stage. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “In The Night” and have worked a ReStructure Mix which extends those powerful and deep keyboard bass riffs and the light hearted edge of keyboards. It is truly one of those 80’s dance numbers that takes the mind into a new realm. |
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Is It In - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Jimmy "Bo" Horne Jimmy “Bo” Horne is one of the funkiest disco experiences around! “Dance Across The Floor” from 1978 began his career on the dance floor with the help of Harry Wayne Casey and Richard Finch (of K.C. and The Sunshine Band) fame. His music is the groove which unites the soulful edge of disco and funk into an infectious sound. “Is It In” is a single from 1980 which rings out that Miami Disco Sound created by K.C. and his club sound. This one is a classic as it was during its release and promises a mark in history that will always bring to mind the power that disco made in its nights of rein. I have taken the 12” version of “Is It In” and reunited that awesome bassline with some new beats to recreate the Jimmy “Bo” Horne piece in a ReStructure Mix draw. It is a new “in and out” flavor for those who love disco music and also this number. |
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Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Tapps Tapps is a high energy disco group featuring Allan Coelho, Candy Berthiaume and Tony DaCosta. A big smash in the early, mid and late 80’s with their high energy hits “My Forbidden Lover”, “Runaway (With My Love)”, “Hurricane” and “Don’t Pretend To Know”. It was shift during the early 80’s to a full electronic arrangement with lots of keyboard magic weaving a rhythmic sound into a dancing force. Tapps had the female lead that presented that sweet and yearning that disco music created with the disco diva at bay. “Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch” is their high energy cover of The Four Tops 1965 hit and it is a rolling tribute with a nice power and execution. For the high energy dance floor this one is quite a cooker. A reminder of the power of dance music when presented in its full flavor. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of Tapps’ “Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch” and reworked a ReStructure Mix to give way to some new energy. The new intro and breaks are an addition to the existing classic edge. |
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Superlove - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – SKYY Skyy is Anibal "Butch" Sierra, Bonny Dunning, Delores Dunning Milligan, Denise Dunning Crawford, Gerald Lebon, Larry Greenburg, Solomon Roberts Jr., Tommy McConnell, Wayne Wilentz and producer Randy Muller of Brass Construction. This band is one of Salsoul Records’ early New York Disco/Funk bands of the late 70’s. Many bands followed in this genre on the Prelude Records label and a new brand of dance music with the flair of the New York disco sound. Randy Mueller who gave us Funk Deluxe, the classic by Tamiko Jones (“Can’t Live Without Your Love”) and his work with Brass Construction continues his journey of inspirational funk sounds here and on with all future Skyy-work. I have taken the 12” version of “Superlove” –which has one of those contagious riffs that make the soul “worm” and reworked a ReStructure Mix adding more sugar to the mix. There is an intro to introduce this groove and more breaks to make it “super”-licious! |
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On Fire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – T-Connection T-Connection is Anthony "Monks" Flowers, Berkley Van Byrd, David Mackey, Kirkwood Coakley, Monty Brown and Theophilus Coakley. The 70’s funk and soul is extremely united with the disco edge with this talented group. Their first dance hit from 1977 titled “Do What You Wanna Do” is a monstrous piece which places their heavy percussion over a groove which is infectious in a way that disco music was clamoring for in the mid and late 70’s. It is an experience that sounds almost ethereal to those who know and use disco music the right way. Produced by Alex Sadkin and Cory Wade and on the classic Henry Stone label Dash Records/TK Records. I have taken their 1977 dance floor hit “On Fire” into the ReStructure Mix realm and reworked another workout for this classic disco mover. Using more of those killer breaks as segue to the action here there are more reasons to understand the power of T-Connection. |
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Uptown Festival - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Shalamar Shalamar is one of disco music’s majestic pinnacles of sound. From their first album titled “Uptown Festival” produced by Simon Soussan (Arpeggio, French Kiss, Romance, Pattie Brooks) to their disco/funk recordings of the 80s and of course the solo careers of Jody Watley and Howard Hewitt. This pure disco medley with the title “Uptown Festival” features a Motown-classic packed disco gem. It features the lead vocals of Gary Mumford and lots of that Soussan-treatment meaning lots of disco-power. It is one of the great disco classics and should always be addressed so. I have taken the album version of “Uptown Festival” and have given it a few new twists and turns in this ReStructure Mix. Only a few of the Motown hits are a part of this new mix but the resonance of the great toppers are evident and still create a stir. |
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Red Light Lover - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gwen Jonae Gwen Jonae is a high energy artist produced by Paul Sabu (Debbie Jacobs, Sabu, Sister Power, Ann Margret) during the early 80’s. Her big club hit titled “Destiny” from 1983 is also one of her well-known tracks as well as her work with Sister Power and the big disco hit “Gimme Back My Love Affair” from 1979. Her powerful vocals were the incantation of a pure disco diva of her time. Many club performances proved that live and along with Paul Sabu’s rockin’ disco production her work was a much welcomed talent to dance floors. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Red Light Lover” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix with a new intro for the blaring high- energy track. It is a more powerful take on the “Lady Marmalade” fix and works like a slick dance piece that keeps pumping and pumping. |
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Club Tropicana - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix –WHAM! WHAM! are George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley who made a big splash in the early 80’s with their blend of pop-dance tracks and stage performances. “Club Tropicana” comes from their 1983 project “Fantastic” – produced by George Michael and Steve Brown. This Calypso-feel dance number blares out like a Carnival celebration with its percussion driven rhythms and hot vocal stimulation. It is one of their memorable numbers and keeps the magic of WHAM! alive today. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Club Tropicana” and re-assembled a ReStructure Mix which not only extends parts of the dreamy melodies but also adds a couple of new breaks to give the party a lasting feel. |
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Together We Are Beautiful - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Fern Kinney Fern Kinney is a disco artist with a big disco cover of King Floyd’s “Groove Me” from 1979 – produced by Carson Whitsett, Tommy Couch and Wolf Stephenson. The single on Henry Stone’s label T.K. Records is a classic. From the same project titled “Groove Me” is a second single titled “Together We Are Beautiful” which is an elegant sounding love song with a lilting melody and haunting vocal from Fern Kinney. This one is an early evening and after-hours must with the swirling disco strings and lovely production. A favorite of mine and one which stands alone when it comes to beautiful disco music. I have taken the album version and used snippets of the single-like version of “Together We Are Beautiful” to create a looping and more dub-like ReStructure Mix. The beauty is still intact within the lovely strings and that sensual vocal. |
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A Few Good Men - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tara Jans Tara Jans is a high-energy artist whose single “A Few Good Men” from 1985 fits the mold of the-“So Many Men, So Little Time” genre of the 80’s. Produced by Daniel Japlin, Fred Munao and Gary Posner and released on Select Records during the peak of high energy music. This one shoots off a barrage of synthetic horns with a kicking groove that plays out well with Tara’s defined vocal. A nice underground hit for me and one that made the floor see hands raised after a few choruses. I have taken the 12” of “A Few Good Men” and used all three version to recreate and recruit a new ReStructure Mix with a few new surprises and extended use of that kickin’ guitar track. |
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Where Did Our Love Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Amii Stewart Amii Stewart is one of disco music’s premier performers and with her big disco hit “Knock On Wood” from 1978 she is an elite part of music history. Her 1981 album “I’m Gonna Get Your Love” features a cover of The Supremes classic “Where Did Our Love Go” – produced by Narada Michael Walden. This piece was featured on the first 12” single from the project and has the edge which we remember best as Amii steers her way through a mass of disco electronics weaving in and out. It is also a nice slick cover of the Motown classic and nice sensual vocal approach for Amii. Always a nice blend for me during afterhour’s moments where a nice reminder of disco ingenuity works. I have taken the 12” version and recreated a new ReStructure Mix working those drum tracks and the jittery synthesizers into a new question for Amii. This one also contains a rolling fade for perhaps more energy. |
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Cherry Pie - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sade Sade is Sade Adu, Paul S. Denman, Andrew Hale and Stuart Matthewman – their first album titled “Diamond Life” from 1984 contained a unique blend of lounge rhythms and jazz funk which made them a continued band even through today. “Cherry Pie” is a track from the project which also became a standard for their playlists even though it never official was a single release. The rolling bass and rhythms make this one an infectious heartbreak tale which satisfies from start to finish. Along with Sade’s vocals this one is an absolute classic. I have taken the album version of “Cherry Pie” and reapplied a new arrangement and ReStructure Mix formula to create a new arena for the song. It has a longer intro, new break and a nice fade for those who can’t get lost deep enough. |
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Ahjia - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Kano I have taken the album version of “Ahjia” and re-edited and reworked a new ReStructure Mix to give way to another burst of energy in a new way. This remix works heavily on the keyboard elements and a new arrangement. |
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Disco Dancing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rice and Beans Orchestra Rice and Beans Orchestra is a disco group from producer Pepe Luis Soto, who also produced Celi Bee and The Buzzy Bunch. The foundation of disco music is based on the reaction from DJs and dance floors – this piece titled “Disco Dancing” from 1977 is an example of how the disco craze caught fire thanks to this feedback. The track sounds like a take-off on The Ritchie Family’s “The Best Disco In Town” and this is what makes it great. It was the disco sound in its exploration and assemblage. A great rhythm piece with some classic disco percussion and guitar work. I have taken the 12” version of “Disco Dancing” on the classic T.K. Records label and reassembled the groove for this ReStructure Mix. I have added some new beats and effects to give this “disco” piece a new lift. |
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3,000,000 Synths - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Chas Jankel I have taken the album version of “3,000,000 Synths” and have given it a new ReStructure Mix paying homage to Jankel’s usage of ears and rhythm with this track. It always found its way onto my early morning playlists and kept many moving during those moments of intense nights out. |
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Love Is You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol Williams Carol Williams is one of the golden voices of disco music. Her appeal has always been one of sweetness and sophistication as dance music was headed into a new orchestral sound. “Love Is You” is from her 1976 album “’Lectric Lady” – produced and conducted by Vincent Montana, Jr. and is a classic among the world of disco. The lasting effect of the drums, bass guitars, percussion and Carol’s fabulous performance is obvious for reasons while the foot is tapping and the mind is free – the true effect of great disco music. I have taken the 12” version of “Love Is You” and reworked a ReStructure Mix to pay tribute to the fantastic production from Montana and the vocal beauty of Ms. Williams. I have added a new arrangement to play and some new breaks for another new experience. |
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Rotation - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Herb Alpert Herb Alpert burst upon the disco/dance scene in 1979 with his big album “Rise” – the title track served for a crossover in his own style. Another notable track from the project is “Rise” which also was released as a 12” dance single. This one is a hypnotic piece which gives Alpert’s magic trumpet an opportunity to shine among the rolling synthesizers and bongo fills. A big after-hours hit for me or for those early evenings where dancers were free to express themselves with their bodies. I have taken the 12” of “Rotation” and recreated a new techno-hypnotic ReStructure Mix to complete the circle here. It adds more percussion and a funk-beat to guide the number to its destination. |
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Good-bye Bad Times - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Philip Oakey and Giorgio Moroder Philip Oakey of Human League moved onto a solo career along with disco producer Giorgio Moroder in 1984 with the title track to the film “Electric Dreams”. The track was a club hit and now a classic. In 1985 a project featuring the vocals of Oakey and production of Moroder was released and featured the single “Good-bye Bad Times” which is a promising look at tomorrow. A nice club song which is known well by followers of both talented musicians. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Good-bye Bad Times” and reworked a ReStructure Mix to play out this uplifting anthem once again. More emphasis on the great synth work from Moroder and keeping intact the magic by Oakey. |
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I'm Gonna Get You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bizarre Inc. Bizarre Inc. is Andrew Meecham, Cameron Danté, Carl Turner, Dean Meredith, Mark Archer and Yvonne Yanney. A 90’s house/techno ensemble from England whose big hit from 1992 caused some hoppin’ and happinin’ on dance floors. “I’m Gonna Get You” featured Angie Brown and also a now classic sample from Jocelyn Brown’s 1985 track, “Love’s Gonna Get You”. This one is the evolution of Italo-house and techno barreled into one ominous groove. The nineties made way for this combination and soon all that was surrounding dance floors was this fantastic groove for the early and mid-90’s. A huge hit for myself and many other jocks this one still rings loud and clear. I have taken the 12” of “I’m Gonna Get You” and utilized pieces of the Todd Terry Mix and dub to rework a ReStructure Mix into another frenzy dance moment. This one uses the best of the mixes and also adds more of Jocelyn’s fabulous rap and vocals. |
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Boys - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Leah Landis Leah Landis is a high energy dance artist from early 80’s. Her 1986 release “Boys” is a cover of The Shirelles hit from 1960. This rolling energy track makes it easy for Leah to let her heart loose and make it well known that those boys are her desire. A bit more outward and every bit as fitting for a high energy track. This one was a surprise hit for my club and kept many on the floor moving onto the morning. I have taken the 12” vocal, dub and instrumental of “Boys” and reworked a ReStructure Mix which adds a classic Donna Summer snippet to bring the synthesizers alive with another tribute to disco and high energy. |
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Under Construction - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - El Coco El Coco is the magic of W. Michael Lewis and Laurin Rinder – a duo which brought the first wave of underground disco to the mid-70’s. Their music was a deep groove of 50’s band along with disco strings and percussion. “Under Construction” is from their third album from 1976 titled “Let’s Get It Together” – another tailored project for the dance floors craving a sound for the growing disco sound. This anthem is one of the statements which work well with the downbeat groove and uplifting chorus. It brings promise to an ongoing and troubled world. I have taken the album version of “Under Construction” and rebuilt a ReStructure Mix adding more percussion and a lengthier play. The bass pieces are the play for the intro and the drop out at the end only shows a greater promise for this focus. |
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Love Flight 109 - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sonia Grier Sonia Grier is a soul/dance vocalist who released a surprise hit in 1986 titled “Love Flight 109” – produced by Bill Bradford (Shock). This one was a big stomper with its Motown feel and a touch of that pop 50’s edge. An uplifting love song about an imaginary airport where promised love takes off into the skies. One of the big dance floor packers of it day and a big Sonia Grier moment. I have taken the 12” extended version, dub and pieces of the original of “Love Flight 109” to depart onto a new trip in this ReStructure Mix. I have used pieces of the dub and instrumental to add some new breaks and effects to this magnificent dance song. |
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Love Is A Stranger - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eurythmics Eurythmics is Dave Stewart and Annie Lennox – perhaps one of the most innovative and exciting groups of the 80’s. Their music was a mystical experience that worked about the synth-pop sound of this period. Most of the recognition was due to the unique style and aura of each artist. “Love Is A Stranger” is from their 1983 project titled “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” which introduced their pulse driven music into a new generation of dancers. The song is their most haunting and mystical number and has echoes of the 60’s psychedelic feel in a light feel. One of my favorites from the duo and one of Annie Lennox’s most intriguing performances. I have taken the album version of “Love Is A Stranger” and re-casted a new spell for this ReStructure Mix. Many new breaks are placed within the wonderful original production and more of that dreamy effect is focused on. |
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Rushin' Roulette - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gregg Diamond's Bionic Boogie Bionic Boogie is a studio ensemble created and produced by Gregg Diamond (Andrea True Connection, Star Cruiser, Hardware). Diamond’s disco extroirdiinaire is based on a soft-rock edge a sweet disco aura at times blended where you are lost in hidden messages and intricate grooves. “Rushin’ Roulette” is from his “Tiger, Tiger” project from 1979 where his focus was on a stripped away feel with more of an edge as the 80’s were bringing a more nu-wave and rock sound to dance floors. This was a genius move on Diamond’s sessions as he did a similar touch on his project titled Hardware. I have taken the album version of “Rushin’ Roulette” and focused more on the fabulous vocal riffs from Luther Vandross, Jocelyn Brown, Janet Wright and Lani Groves. An added cameo from John Lennon brings this underground sound into a more celebratory light. |
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I Can Dream About You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dan Hartman Dan Hartman brought a new magic to disco music in 1978 with his big hit “Instant Replay” and following many memorable dance classics including “Relight My Fire” with Loleatta Holloway. His venture from the 70’s to the 80’s was successful with his 1984 album “I Can Dream About You” with the title track being featured in the film “Streets Of Fire”. This love groove is one of the best 80’s dance numbers with the right amount of heart and soul to haunt your feet. It was a huge track for me as I reverted to playing it during peak hours with many dancers lost in its hypnotic groove. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “I Can Dream About You” and moved the song into a ReStructure Mix mood. More of the dream feels with some extensive looping to emphasize the yearning. It is a fade out which I can only want more of this one. |
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We Can Make It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Evans and Fisher Danny Fisher and Tommy Evans brought the third generation of Italo-disco to dance floors in the mid-80s. Their electronic productions were as lush and swirling as the Euro-disco of the late 70’s and helped to preserve the disco edge. “:We Can Make It” is their 1988 release which is a breath of disco air, This number sweeps and sways like a fabulous Fred Astaire dance number on a disco high. It contains their signature heavy percussion foundation with the beautiful electronic strings and sweet vocal reminding us of the early days of European disco music. A beautiful piece that deserves to be honored as most of their productions, I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “We Can Make It” and reworked a ReStructure Mix to give another disco trance like moment alive. It adds a sample from the Larry Page Orchestra to add to those incredible drum-fills. This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Denni Demaldè – thank you for the request and being so kind. |
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Don't Lose Your Heart Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Joy Peters Joy Peters is an Austrian Euro-dance artist who released a big Italo-disco hit titled “Don’t Lose Your Heart Tonight” in 1986 – produced by Bert Mayer. A big hit in my club and one of the haunting tracks which always resurfaces for me time after time. It has a powerful hook and some of the most hard-hitting keyboards for the time. IU have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Don’t Lose Your Heart Tonight” and re-visited the song in the ReStructure Mix vein. It has samples of another classic by Hugh Masakela which helps to emphasize the longing for this love. |
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Jeremy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Donna Summer Donna Summer released her twelfth project titled “Cats Without Claws” in 1984 – produced by Michael Omartian. The list of tracks in this package resembled the pop-synth dance tracks of the period and also some material which emphasized Donna’s rock and blues edge and what she aspired to be following the disco era. Her voice was always powerful and with tracks like “Jeremy” which follows the rock ballad theme of the 60’s it gave Donna the sound which made her stand apart and shine in her own light. The ballad was a beautiful piece which I always loved and taking it to a new canvas is a tribute to this part of Donna. I have taken the album version of “Jeremy” as a ballad and added some new percussion tracks to transform it into a dreamy early morning dance experience. Another composition added by composer Pino Donaggio from his “Body Double” soundtrack to emphasize again the sexy and yearning side of Donna in the “Love To Love You Baby” tradition. CORRECTION: "Jeremy" is from Donna's "All Systems Go" project from 1987 - Thanks to Troy Westrick for reminding me |
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Talk About - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Phaeax Phaeax is an Italo-disco session from Claudio Fiorentino and Massimo Gabutti – also known as Fenix. Their 1983 single “Talk About” is an odd dance single which hit dance floors towards the electronic dance music peak. High energy became the next step towards movement on innovation. This hard hitting and strange number is one of the Italo-disco tracks which contain some catchy riffs and the hardcore keyboard plays. The airy sounds behind the chorus always reminded me of “Go Go Yellow Screen”: by Digital Emotion. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Talk About” and reassembled a ReStructure Mix which keeps the energy alive and adds some new breaks. The cause behind this track is mysterious yet the energy is undoubtedly forward. |
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Flamethrower - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The J. Geils Band The J. Geils Band is one of the 70’s rock super groups with 11 albums to their credit during the time period. “Freeze-Frame” is their 1981 project and features several hit singles including “Flamethrower” which gave the crew a crossover dance number that also became an instrumental for a rap song from Felix & Jarvis in 1982. This piece used a hard pounding drum to give the rock edged song a hardcore rhythmic sound. It is one of the nice elements as well as the story of a woman so hot and sexy she leaves flames wherever she goes. A big crossover dance number for The J. Geils Band and a piece of 80’s dance history. I have taken the album version of “Flamethrower” and pounded out a new ReStructure Mix with more of the energy for the dancers who stills can take the heat. There are a few more breaks and breakdowns for this story of a siren that makes head spin. |
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American Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ladies Choice Ladies Choice is an electronic dance project from Gino D’ Orazio and Tony Bentivegna of Nightlife Unlimited. One of the big Canadian disco singles of the early 80’s and a huge dance floor packer for me. This one uses all of the keyboard power to generate a rolling dance track that has more power to it than a protein drink. It reverberates back and forth as the Lime hits of the time and features their vocalist from Motion (“Don’t Stop”) – an earlier hit project. I have taken the 12” version of “American Man” and recharged the experience in this ReStructure Mix using the syn-drum riffs and keyboards in a new arrangement. A sexy break is added to explain just what those “American Men” can do. |
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Do You Really Want To Hurt Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Culture Club Culture Club is George O’Dowd, Jon Moss, Roy Hay, and Michael Craig. The early 80’s were the place for this band and their music contains the sound which brought dance floors back into the dance mode. “Do You Really Want To Hurt Me” is a reggae based track which is one their first big hits both on radio and dance floors. It remains one of the permanent fixtures of the 80’s generation and also a sound which echoes a past momentum of dance music history, I have taken the 12” vocal and dub version to recapture “Do You Really Want To Hurt Me” in the Restructure Mix vein. More of an early morning feel with more Afro-Cuban bongos and a downbeat. The essence of the song remains and only echoes more of that club atmosphere. |
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Leavin' The Good Life Behind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Phyllis Hyman Phyllis Hyman is a vocalist whom brought to dance music sweetness and unique soulful rendition which paints experience and emotion. Her 1975 initial release is a single titled “Leavin' The Good Life Behind” – wonderfully produced by George Kerr (The O'Jays, Florence Ballard, Linda Jones) and gives way to the soulful connection of soul and disco in its early stages. The single was mixed by the legendary Mr. Tom Moulton and displays that instrumental insert which so many dancer s adored during these club years. Phyllis plays out this romance gone wrong as an anthem-like track and once again makes heartache feel so real – as her vocals relay so well. A great retro piece and another powerful statement for the early sound of dance music. I have taken the long version from the 7” single and have given it the ReStructure Mix treatment making it a new emotional dance piece. The rolling ball and rhythm guitars are made more evident and play out as new breaks and riffs. |
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La Nuit Blanche - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine Munich Machine is a project from disco producer, Giorgio Moroder and was a major release for disco music. The production is one of the majestic blends of Euro-disco with new elements of electronic wizardry from Moroder. The second album which featured a disco-fied cover of Procol Harum’s “A Whiter Shade of Pale” in a clever format with vocals from Chris Bennett is also a continuum of Moroder’s instrumental genius weaving his keyboards and synthesizers into dance floor gems. “La Nuit Blanche” which translates into “a sleepless night” blends “Also Sprach Zarathustra” and takes the classical piece created by Richard Strauss into the disco futurism in a dramatic interlude. A must for any fan of Moroder or Munich Machine. I have taken the album version of “La Nuit Blanche” and pieces of Vienna Philharmonic’s recording of “Also Sprach Zarathustra” and reworked a ReStructure Mix for a new voyage into discos magic. There are more of the wonderful sequencers and rolling synthesizers Moroder brought to the history of dance and of course “drama”! |
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I Want It To Be Real - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - John Rocca John Rocca is an innovator of 80’s electronic music. His talent helped to bring a new light to street, funk and dance music in the early 80s. His affiliation with the group Freeze (“I.O.U.”, “Pop Goes My Love”) are the sounds which helped to make New York another point of interest for music breaking molds and concepts. The electronic wave during the early 80’s been and is an important factor in today’s pop-dance and hip-hop scene. The rhythm and melodic tones may be played a bit off but the innovation is the same. “I Want It To Be Real” is one of the 80’s pieces which set a futuristic edge on video games and VHS tapes the way disco created for films like “Star Wars” and “Close Encounters…” did in the 70’s. A breakout number and even today brings a fresh sound out in the dance arena. I have taken the 12” vocal and dub to recreate homage to street-beat music in this ReStructure Mix. The intro is given a straight out flat beat with some reverberation to accompany the build and John’s message is delivered with more intent. |
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Puerto Rico - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Découpage Découpage is an 80’s dance band assembled by producers Tony Swain and Steve Jolley. Their first single from 1982 titled “Puerto Rico” is a track which brings a funk-Latin feel to celebrate a country where dance and music is a part of history. The song was well received during a period where disco had shifted into a more funk infused sound. This one helped to blend the theme into a dance number with a slick production. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental and reworked the percussion and melody into a new ReStructure Mix. The melodic chorus and verses are intact with a few more drops to make this new version last longer. |
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Melody of Love (Wanna Be Loved) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer “Melody of Love” is Donna Summer’s 1994 track from her “Endless Summer (Donna Summer’s Greatest Hits)” project. Produced by Donna, Bienvenue and Robert Welcome this house piece is another sound blaster from Summer in the 90’s. Her vocal places the song up on top from start to finish. It is a Donna-fan masterpiece when the chorus strikes and leaves us with no wonder why this woman dominated the charts and dance floors for years. I have taken the 12” “Classic Club Mix” of “Melody of Love” and sliced up a new ReStructure Mix to homage to this “First Lady of Love” and her talent. A riff from her classic “Once Upon A Time” project gives us a slight touch of the classic disco memories and the fade is one of the wonderful Summer moments. |
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Young Hearts Run Free - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Nana McLean Nana McLean is a Jamaican born singer who began her recording career in Canada in 1979 with her album “Dream Of Life”. Her voice eventually lead her into the disco realm and more of an effort to cover Candi Staton’s disco classic/anthem “Young Hearts Run Free” – with her softer approach and the electronic production by John Forbes in 1985 this one is a nice breath of fresh dance air. It blends a heavy beat with the tinkling percussion to give the classic a new lift and with Nana’s sweet and lovely vocal it is a welcome cover. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of Nana’s “Young Hearts Run Free” to recreate a new stage for a ReStructure Mix. A few new breaks and re-arranging are infused to add more of the dance hall feel. It is a wonderful track to work with and the fade out is one which can bring out the flag dancers to serenade it. |
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Standing In The Shadows of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Deborah Washington Deborah Washington is one of the early talents of disco music with several big dance floor hits to her arsenal. “Standing In The Shadows of Love” is Deborah’s cover of The Four Tops – Motown classic in disco chic exuberance. The opening of the original is a piece titled “Love Shadow” which is a segue into the excitement. Most disco productions which focused their attention to the dance found and created an introduction to the big main dance number which was as exciting as the drop out in techno music was in the 90’s. The production by George Tobin (Tiffany, Kenny Rogers, Thelma Houston and Tina Turner) and Mike Piccirillo (Robert John, Kim Carnes, Smokey Robinson) is a deep dive into the disco pool and as deep as the edge. A nice track that echoes the sound of a pounding beat creating bodies that just could not stop moving. I have taken the album version of “Standing In The Shadows of Love” using only a segment of “Love Shadows” as a breakdown in this new ReStructure Mix. A new beat and percussion track is added to beef up this classic remake and keep the feet moving as this one did when it was released.
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The Fever Rock - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fever Fever is Dale Reed, Dennis Wadlington and Joseph “Joe” Bomback – a band who became one of the resonating memories of the biggest disco projects in history for clubs. “Beat Of The Night” is one of the big cuts from the project and self-titled album from 1979. The session featured assistance from Patrick Cowley on synthesizers, vocals by Clydene Jackson, Julian Tilman Waters and Maxine Willard Waters, along with production guidance by John Hedges and Megatone’s Marty Blechman. “The Fever Rock” is the fourth track from the 2-sided segued disco energized project. Always a favorite of mine and a wonderful fantasy for the disco floor and another anthem-like piece from Fever. Those who remember their first single “Standing In The Shadows Of Love” know what I am talking about. I have taken the album version of “The Fever Rock” and broke the beat into pounding 4 beat drums for this ReStructure Mix. The rolling energy is stopped for few new breaks where the “rock” takes on a new beat-feel. This one is one of my favorites and again marks a giant moment when “disco ruled the world”! |
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Bring On The Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - WOW WOW is one of Bobby Orlando’s hardcore and underground disco/high energy sessions which helped to ignite dance floors in the 80’s. His approach to the dance floor was a heavy layer of drums and percussion – close to influence the tribal sound of the late 80’s and early 90’s. “Bring On The Man” is a release from 1984 and gives us the full-on treatment of lyrical female vocals over a hardcore drum fantasy. One of the many favorites for myself during a transition period of dance music and also the style of Orlando’s underground disco feel. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Bring On The Man” and re-patterned a new ReStructure Mix which gives us more of those pounding drums and keyboards. It is a new play on this classic Memo Records release for another retro look at high energy and its roots. |
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Sexcrime (Nineteen Eighty Four) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eurythmics Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart are Eurythmics. Their creative minds and display of innovation in use of synthesizers and keyboards brought a new layer of sound to the 80’s. Their single “Sexcrime (Nineteen Eighty Four)” from 1984 is from the soundtrack for the film “1984” and displays an edge of rock and synth-pop fusion. It is one of their most memorable tracks and plays out as a masterpiece of their incredible catalogue. I have taken the 12” version of “Sexcrime (Nineteen Eighty Four)” and moved the recording into a lengthier intro and play with arrangements in this ReStructure Mix. It is the most powerful syncopated bass lines of the 80’s and works wonderfully now in a new way. |
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This Girl's Back In Town - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Raquel Welch Raquel Welch is one of the lasting beauties that Hollywood gave us. Her career is best known for the iconic sex symbol yet there is more to this woman when learn of her ambition and drive. In the late 70’s Raquel paired up with 2 of the music industries innovative producers and musicians – Mr. Bob Esty and Michael Zager. Both gave the 70’s its stamp on dance music with their many successful projects both on and off the dance floor. “This Girl’s Back In Town” is a stance for Raquel and plays out with more than a return to a broken romance but also her force and dedication to her career. The song is written by Bob Esty and the late Paul Jabara (“Last Dance”) and is another example of disco/dance music’s transition from the orchestral and funky arrangements to a full electronic powerhouse. I have taken the 12” vocal and “Rhythm Remix” of “This Girl’s Back In Town” and reworked a new stage number in this ReStructure Mix. A few reminders of disco’s history are added and Raquel is still in the right place along with the genius minds of Mr. Zager and Mr. Esty. |
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Memory - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Diva Diva Gray is a voice that is well known in dance music since the mid-70’s as she performed in many disco sessions including Change, Gregg Diamond’s Starcruiser and Bionic Boogie, Chic, Joe Thomas, Soiree, Lemon and her album Diva Gray and Oyster. Many riffs from classic vocal pieces belong to this incredible voice. Her 1983 recording of “Memory” (the theme from the Broadway Show “Cats”) takes the song to a new extreme. It is one of the great examples of the power of Ms. Gray’s vocals. The soulful and ‘diva” (pardon the pun) performance is one of my favorite 80’s pieces and the production from Jacques Morali (The Ritchie Family, Village People, Julius Brown, Eartha Kitt) is amazing. It is another mark for excellence on the Prelude Records label. I have taken 12” vocal and instrumental and created a new ReStructure Mix with more of the Broadway feel in mind. It is extended with some new drum tracks and percussion to kick up the drama. |
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Elevator - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Joanne Spain Joanne Spain is a disco artist who released her single “Elevator” in 1975 – produced by Clayton Ivey and Terry Woodford. This one is a “boogie” dance track which takes us to the sound of Silver Convention ala strings. It has some wonderful riffs and a sexy vocal which is what disco music was made of in the mid-70’s. The theme is obviously pointed at creating a new dance – most likely called “the elevator”, but it is sheer fun here. I have taken the 12” version of “Elevator” and reworked that rolling bass and sheer strings into a new ReStructure Mix. It has some new percussion elements that kick up the energy and also gives that sweet disco sound move hip motion. |
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Moving Your Hips - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Squash Gang Squash Gang is Cristina Manzano, Francisco Quijada and José Quijada. The ensemble from Sabadell, Spain released several electronic dance tracks from 1986 through 2009 – their most notable being “Moving Your Hips” from 1987. In the Italo-disco vein this tracks is heavily pounding with cathedral-like keyboards and a few scratch riffs. It is a bit haunting and resonates as an 80’s electronic dance piece should. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Moving Your Hips” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix to pay homage not only to the trio but also the lasting feel of Italo-disco. The song was one of the big hits in my club and one of my fondest memories of it is watching a crowded dance floor get lost in it. |
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Hot Sun On Video - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Venus Venus is a German disco ensemble produced by Tony Hendrik and Karin Hartmann. Their 1985 single “Hot Sun On Video:” is an 80’s Euro-dance track which follows the period home video explosion and the trend of creating dance music which followed the trend of video bars and clubs in this outline. The mainframe here is the formulation of high energy music and the force behind the electronic production. The mid-80’s took the lead on this type of dance number and made the sound complete. Vocals are enticing and a bit erotic here which leads from the disco sound of the seventies. I have taken the 12” version “Hot Sun On Video” and reedited a ReStructure Mix using the keyboards and beats as the reference to a new excitement. This one heats up and then pours it on heavily. A salute to the German dance innovation of the early 80’s. |
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The Main's So Real - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mimi Mimi is a high-energy/disco artist who recorded several dance singles in the early and mid-80’s. “The Man’s So Real” is a single from 1984 and was produced by Andy Sojka and Richard de Jongh who also brought us electronic productions from Magic Bullets, Contact-U, Ashaye, Atmosfear and Distance. During an early experimental period and the creation of high energy their heavy keyboard and percussion tracks became more notable for jocks that would use even parts of the tracks in instrumental parts as mixable tracks. Mimi’s single caught my attention as it closely followed the “So Many Men, So Little Time” formula with the heavy cowbell and cosmic-like breaks. A nice little fantasy and dance track of a woman’s dream of the perfect man. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “The Man’s So Real” and recreated a flowing ReStructure Mix using my favorite parts of the song. It brings in the chorus with more of the rolling arpeggio and new breaks using the original percussion fills. |
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Let It Be - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Top Secret Top Secret is an Italo-disco consisting of Cay Hume and Christof Scheibe. Their only release is from 1988 titled “Let It Be” – it follows closely to Pet Shop Boys cover of Willie Nelson’s “Always On My Mind” from 1987 with the rolling bass synths and orchestral strikes. This one is just as beautiful as a dance track can be and is one which immediately caught my attention. It was a big dance floor hit in my club and during mobile gigs and one I remember fondly as ‘lyrical Italo-disco”. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Let It Be” to recreate the dramatic emphasis of this love song for a new ReStructure Mix. It is a bit extended with those lovely chorus echoes and the wonderful loving mood it weaves. |
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Ain't Love Grand - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hott City Hott City is a classic disco production from 1979 from producer/musicians Jeffrey Parsons and Jeffrey Steinberg – and features a couple of tracks with vocalists Mildred Vaney and Ortheia Barnes who later became Cut Glass (“Without Your Love”) under the same production. “Ain’t Love Grand” is the titled track from the album by the same name and was originally released under the artist Graffiti. It is a fast moving disco number that teases and bends with excitement. Released on the classic disco label Butterfly Records. I have taken the album version of “Ain’t Love Grand” and reedited and reworked a new ReStructure Mix. It features some new percussion and extended pieces of the fabulous keyboard riffs. A disco classic is back! |
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Dance Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Service The Service is an 80’s dance project from Mystery Host Productions and released their only single “Dance Up” in 1983. The track was written by Gui who worked with David Bowie in 1974. This electronic piece is a funk driven production with a light nu-wave twist. It has always been an early morning or early evening weapon for me in my 80’s sets and even today keeps a nice groove moving. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental versions of “Dance Up” to rework this ReStructure Mix into a new groove. Some of the subtle keyboards riffs are answered with samples from a classic Motown number by Smokey Robinson. Dance up! |
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Dance Forever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gaucho Gaucho is an Italo-disco project from Bruno Bergonzi, and two of the boys from the group Kano – Luciano Ninzatti and Stefano Pulga. “Dance Forever” was released in 1983 on System Music Records in Italy and became one of the exciting electronic dance pieces of the year. A touch of Calypso flair in the keyboards and percussion give this track a lift to an uplifting celebration. This one lasted for quite a while and was known for the electronic steel drum play and those fantastic breaks. It is one of the great examples of Italo-disco in the early 80s and the innovative twists and turns the musicians and productions were not shy of. I have taken the 12” version along with the “DJ version” drum side and created a ReStructure Mix which takes a few Calypso tracks into the excitement. This playful remix is for those who just can’t get enough of that Italo-disco flavor or that Calypso or Carnival excitement. |
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You Keep Me Hanging On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Zina O' Zina O’ is a French singer who released a cover of Diana Ross and The Supremes classic “You Keep Me Hanging On” in 1982. The production by Albert Verrechia is a vibrant synth and percussion dance track which allows Zina O’ to lay out her own style of rock edged yearning in this version. In the early 80’s there was a hunt for tracks that offered this formula and it caught my attention in the storm of many releases of the time. It has its wonderful moments where the chorus and drop outs play a great rhythmic point for the song. I have taken the original 12” version of Zina O’s “You Keep Me Hanging On” and recreated a new arrangement and extension in this ReStructure Mix. More of the elements which matter is here again and outwardly played. |
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Alec R. Costandinos added another layer onto the fantasy elements of disco music in the mid and late 70’s. Bringing to dance floors disco-fied concepts of “Romeo and Juliet” and in this project “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”. The fully orchestrated productions were also a part of his band Love and Kisses with the help of Don Ray. I was a new genre titled Euro-disco. The strings, horns, and stylized touched that Costandinos created were a force which was exciting and gave disco music purpose another important movement. “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is a production which displays the creativity and innovation that the disco music producers were completely at the reins of. I have taken the second movement of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” and used the beautiful sounds to ReStructure the “La Esmeralda” character and purpose. It is another tribute to Euro-disco and the man himself, Alec R. Costandinos. |
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Shotgun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paul Sabu Paul Sabu placed the cherry u-top the disco sundae. His productions with Debbie Jacobs, Sister Power, Gwen Jonae and Ann Margret are the most complete sound which is disco music in the late 70’s. The funky guitars and sweeping strings bring the disco fantasy to life. His solo projects are arranged and positioned as a rock-disco production and they play out in that glam rock edge in a disco finale. “Shotgun” is a single Paul wrote, arranged and performs in his power and unforgettable appeal. A disco dance floor at 4 am I can remember not only feeling but coming to life again after a long night of dancing. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Shotgun” and created this stage-explosion for a new ReStructure Mix. Using that rolling bass and Paul’s rhythm and lead guitars to lead us on once again, another journey. |
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Night Fever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol Douglas Carol Douglas is one of disco music’s darling diva. Her big dance floor hit “Doctor’s Orders” from 1974 immediately became the outline for a new disco sound. From there on Carol became a disco queen in her own right where she transformed strobe lights and pin spots into mysterious and loving places. In 1978 Carol’s album titled “Burnin’” featured a cover of the Bee Gees big hit “Night Fever” – produced by John Davis. This gave the song a whole new perspective with Carol’s sweet chords guiding us into the night’s energy. A nice and distinctive take on the big club track. I have taken the album version of “Night Fever” and rewired the message in this ReStructure Mix. The new formula only lends to the mystique of disco music and the control disc jockey would work for. |
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Move Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Margie M. Marie M. is an Italo-disco artist who released her only 12” single in 1987 where the A-side was a melodic dance track titled “China Boy” and the B-side a mystifying and moody number titled “Move Up”. The production by Cay Hume echoes the dance scene of the mid 80’s with the rolling bass and light keyboards. I focused more on the track “Move Up” since I enjoyed the early morning sound that emerges from it. I have always wanted to give it more of the fantasy it deserves. I have taken the 12” version of “Move Up” and reworked this lengthier and more destined journey in this ReStructure Mix. A familiar chant and some percussion are added from a classic which follows the same mood. |
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If You'd Only Come Back - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Claire Claire Chevalier began her recording career in 1965 and become one of the voices in the disco era which outlined the sound from where it begins and matured. Many of the breakthrough artists in the US club scene were artists from France, Europe and producers who knew the dance formula all too well. This gave an advantage to Claire and a sexy yet outward power in her music. “If You’d Only Come Back” is a single from 1978 on the New York disco label Prelude Records. The B-side to her disco hit “High On Love” – which is one of my favorite disco sounds with sex appeal and striking builds lyrics of uncontrollable desire. Produced by Thomas Noton and arranged by Ray Khenestsky (Black Light Orchestra, Paris Connection). Claire is a disco chanteuse would not only play out the formula well but also gives off a believable apology in this track. I have taken the 12” version of “If You’d Only Come Back” and focused on the excitement of the chorus and breaking it down with a few new riffs and the ReStructure Mix direction. The full orchestration is in the pop tradition of disco music and allows a nice retro reflection on the 70’s its powerful influence. |
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I Got A Dream - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Betty Brown Betty Brown is a soul vocalist who was a member of a New York band titled Mystic Merlin. Her recording career lead her voice into a hardcore dance palace anthem from 1986 titled “I Got A Dream” – produced by Peter Barradell. This pounding dance number is formulated as dance floor classic from the blaring electronic trumpets to the wonderful sound of Betty reminding us once again on the dance floor that love conquers all. That is another reason it stands out as a disco anthem from the 80’s. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “I Got A Dream” and reshaped this rejoicing arrangement into a new ReStructure Mix. The flow is a bit more separated but the energy and excitement is still intact. |
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Rock It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Herbie Hancock Herbie Hancock is one of the artists who created and composed one of the most important song overlooked from the 80’s. “Rock It” is a disco break in a street-razor-electro hype with some of Hancock’s many influences with his music. This track was a big innovation and marked every piece of New York Street and early scratching scene of the turntables into an anthem that plays out like a new discovery in human emotion. Along with a video work to express this movement in another new way the Hancock playout is magic. If you are not and were not fond of the street dub sound at least listen to what the music is saying in parts. It was an innovative time for dance music. I have taken the 12” version of “Rock It” and worked a more mystic ReStructure Mix to piece Hancock’s jam sections into a new mover. A play on the title is assisted by Lipps Inc. and more of that rolling bass is used till the bass screams.
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High On Tech - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Roboterwerke Roboterwerke is a German electronic/synth-pop project from the early 80’s and members included Dieter Kolb and Franz Aumuller. Their sound followed the tracks of Kraftwerk with more of an energy luster to this edge of computer-sized musique. The somewhat comedic approach to covers is somewhat lovely and hilarious at the same time with their electric powered “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” A bit like Max Hedroom syndrum. Their 1981 single “High On Tech” is one of the jittery energy pieces I enjoyed fitting into a program as such and felt the vibe the band was portraying. It is a glam-rock-electronic pulsating anthem and a bit pulse of what these guys were doing. I have taken the original 12” version of “High On Tech” and reworked the bass synths and arrangement to a simpler ReStructure Mix. This adds a few new riffs to give it some undercurrent and brings the rolling intro back as a fading close. |
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Love Attack - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tony Caso Tony Caso is a vocalist known as many voices in Bobby Orlando projects – including Waterfront Home, One-Two-Three and Hotline. During the shift to electronic dance music in the early 80’s Orlando made his mark with productions which stood out on dance floors from Divine and The Flirts. The new underground sound was accepted as if a return to the club haven was beginning all over again. “Love Attack” from 1987 is again a parody of a percussion driven sound he created in the early 80’s. A fast moving vehicle for a return to the extended disco break with vocals. Tony’s vocals are more evident in this take as I see it, of Ferrara’s disco classic by the same name from 1979 – which I am assuming is the all-powerful disco enchantment to lure dancers in a frenzy of desire. In all good fun this one is one of the many Orlando releases which made his sound a major element of the 80’s high energy movement. I have taken the 12” vocal and dub of “Love Attack” and reworked a HI-NRG ReStructure Mix into a new recipe. It pays more attention to those rolling bass synths that Bobby laid out for us to follow and again, the heavy percussion that gives the hips a workout! |
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The Sun Aint Gonna Shine Anymore - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Quantize Quantize is a high energy dance project from the UK produced by Nick Lyne and Rod Warren. Their 1988 release of a high energy cover of The Walker Brothers 1965 classic “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore” is like maple syrup on disco pancakes. The heavy beats and rolling bass are delivered as the finished product of high energy music as it progressed from the early 80s up this period. Also intact in the lyrical disco melody which makes no apologies at being beautiful to sway to. The production is one of my favorites and stands out even today as a pivotal moment in dance music. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore” and broke the angelic chorus into pieces. This ReStructure Mix is one of another tributes to a great shift in dance floors pawning for more of that beautiful high energy and early morn |
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Baby, I Love You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nicky Onidis Nicky Onidis is a German entertainer who released two dance singles in the early 80s’s in the synth-pop sound which seemed to awaken dance floors following soundtracks like “Flashdance”. A soft pop-rock edge was always evident in most of these tracks as well and the hard hitting syn-drums. Nicky’s second single from 1982 was produced by Patric Perquee and is a cover of The Ronnettes 1964 song “Baby, I Love You”. This version is the synthesized disco-pop style which pours out the sound as Phil Spector worked in his music. Nicky Onidis takes her falsetto into the classic and makes it sweet and a bit camp. It was a single that was released as a 3:28 version 12” single so it missed the extended mix market. It caught my ear for the after-hours moments when the crowd was ready for a little surprise. I have taken the short 12” version of “Baby, I Love You” and worked the keyboards and drums into new ReStructure Mix. Since the chorus stands out as it originally did I worked a few breaks and dub moments to break this extended version into more parts. |
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Love In The Shadows - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - E.G. Daily E.G. Daily is an actress and singer whose career began as a “valley girl” in a film by the same name. Her dedication to make a career in pop music became realistic in 1985 with the release of her album “Wild Child”. Her vocal gave dance music a strong female edge with the rough feel of her vocals yet on tracks like “Love In The Shadows” there is a calming and sweet resonance. Produced by Munich producer and Giorgio Moroder studio collaborator, Harold Faltermeyer (you can hear his name in Moroder’s “E=Mc2” track) the electronic production is much like the 80’s anthems where a powerful female voice takes us through mystery and heartbreak. This one was a huge dance palace number and always reminded me of the disco edge remaining intact yet emerging as a whole new sound. I have taken the vocal and dub from the 12” of “Love In The Shadows” and re-casted more of the magic in this ReStructure Mix. As I hear it, once again this ‘anthem’ is more about its beauty and dance floors could never capture the movement of this emotion. |
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I Do Believe (I've Fallin' In Love) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer Donna Summer made the seventies a place for dreamers and lovers. Those who became with Donna had a secret affair with her amazing vocal range and versatility. From her first project in 1975 there was a soft and sensual edge to her voice although at times even early in her recording career you always knew there was a force building. “(I Do Believe) I Fell In Love” from Donna’s 1983 “She Works Hard For The Money” is one of the tracks that deliver her full essence. The song is more of a ballad which becomes a beat driven stage for Donna’s sensual, lyrical and wonderful vocal range. Produced by Michael Omartian. I have taken the album version of ““(I Do Believe) I Fell In Love” and worked a dreamy dub-like ReStructure Mix that flows with phasing and echoes. This fantasy is more of Donna’s lure as her voice is transformed throughout the song in many ways. |
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Saturday Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lauren Grey Lauren Grey is an 80’s high energy artist from Chicago who released several dance singles on Dice Records. “Saturday Night” is Lauren’s 1986 release – produced by Tom Weisser. The 80’s dance sound moved in a full electronic production and many independent artists had the ability to hit the stage with more of the underground dance energy. “Saturday Night” is a funkier track from Lauren and gave a new appeal for this high energy chanteuse. I have taken the 12” single version of “Saturday Night” and worked some of the components which ring out in this funky mechanism. This ReStructure Mix uses a familiar rhythm track to bring out more of the weekend that is calling us to release all we’ve got. |
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Be My Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cruisin' Gang Cruisin’ Gang is one of the top Italo-disco projects during the early 80’s when much experimentation was taking place in the arena. “Be My Life” from 1987 is their single which gives every sound that the vocals of Laura Fadinger, Sabrina Morroya and Ombretta Marsigli play out. There has always been a sweetness to the vocals and delivery in Cruisin’ Gang’s tracks and this one towers like an anthem. Produced by Ennio Manuel. This one is a favorite and gives a wonderful chorus that rings out like a nice underground ABBA song. I have taken the 12” of “Be My Life” and replayed the magic with a touch of percussion from a classic to lead this ReStructure Mix. I have used the same formula and only reedited a few segments to give the song a new feel. |
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If I Were Venus - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Touch-N-Go Touch-N-Go is a high energy/electronic project from producer Elario and features a beautiful vocal from Shannon Callahan. This 1990 track was released on Patrick Cowley’s San Francisco dance label Megatone Records. This one holds several nice elements which cross between techno and ambient. It flows smoothly with emotion thanks to Shannon’s soaring vocal. The high energy period of the late 80’s brought this concoction together and it is pieced magnificently. A huge dance floor filler for me and always one where a blended program could speak with more of mood than energy. I have taken the “Club Mix” of the 12” version to recreate a new trip for this ReStructure Mix of “If I Were Venus”. A build using more of the dreamy vocals and jittery keyboards in a new arrangement are created. |
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I Don't Know If It's Right - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Evelyn "Champagne" King Evelyn “Champagne” King is one of voices in disco history that brought a nuance and promise to this genre of music. Her classic dance track, “Shame” from 1977 was a pivotal moment for dance floors. A soulful and young sound was created with Evelyn’s fabulous vocals and the production from Theid9ire Life. “I Don’t Know If It’s Right” is the follow up single from the project and brings another nice feel to this disco number. This track made many cool down after “Shame” but never give on this exciting new performer. I have taken the 12” version of “I Don’t Know If It’s Right” and made a new environment for this ReStructure Mix. A touch more of that killer bass-line in many new reassignments and also a new fade for the song which leaves only a question of love, not rhythm. |
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Just Wanna Make You Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The J.B.'s The J.B.’s are the musicians who backed The King Of Soul – Mr. James Brown. The band recorded albums under their name from 1971 through 1999. The soulful horns and funky wah-wah guitars created a style of dance music which helped move onto further chapters including disco in the late 70’s. It was all music tailored to move the hips. “Just Wanna Make You Dance” comes from their 1979 album “Groove Machine” and is the completeness of soul becoming the interpretive disco sound for the mid and latter parts of the 70’s. This bouncy piece has a sassy chorus reminding the crowd to keep moving with the music and try to refrain from the sexy lure of dance floors of the time. It was one of the big hits in my club and always reminded me of the Stargard’s of the 70’s and the Klymaxx’s of the 80’s. I have taken the album version of “Just Wanna Make You Dance” and added a line from “The King” himself to bring this ReStructure Mix the homage to the crossover of soul to disco music. The drums and bongos are sliced and reassembled as more than breaks and are attempted to bring the party back again. |
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The Letter - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amii Stewart Amii Stewart is best known for her huge disco hit from 1978 “Knock On Wood” – a cover of Eddie Floyd’s 1967 soul classic. Her transformation of the song into a disco powerhouse event is thanks to producer Barry Leng. This formula is repeated again with Amii’s 1979 release of “The Letter” – yet another transformed pop classic into “disco heaven”. This track from her album “Paradise Bird” gives off a rock edged electronic arrangement with the same level of disco magic. Lots of heavy drums and bass-lines that roll out each part of Amii’s incredible vocal delivery. This is again one of the big assets in disco history which never grows out of fashion for this genre. I have taken the album version of “The Letter” and moved it into a new phase of the underground feel for this ReStructure Mix. Pulling the ominous bass tracks and pounding drums into an ethereal environment. More of that fading off for the big finish into oblivion – but with that idea that it is not quite over yet. |
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I Want You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gary Low Italo-disco began to shine in the early 80’s when a definite need for fantasy and escape on dance floors were still needed. The alternative sound of disco in an electronic form with much of the same beauty. Gary Low’s “I Want You” from 1983 became one of the big Italian dance hits thanks to the production from Paul Micioni and Peter Micioni. An echo of pianos and light dancing keyboards are the lure in this, one of my favorites from Gary. The romantic edge is one which many who recall falling in love with as love at first site. A break record also with lots of percussion and bongos to stir the way. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “I Want You” and worked a new ReStructure Mix which focuses on the beautiful melody. This outline plays more of the accompaniment which speaks the most in this tune. A salute to Italo-disco again! |
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Tossing, Turning and Swinging - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shalamar Shalamar is one of early disco-soul ensembles to emerge with hits medley from 1977 titled “Uptown Festival” – produced by Simon Soussan. The track consisted of Motown dance hits blended into a tight disco song with a colorful arrangement and great inception for Shalamar. Their disco years were defiantly their notable time with “Take That To The Bank” and “Tossing, Turning and Swinging”. The group made a move into the arena of soul glazed disco with the soulful vocals and electronic funk being devised by Dick Griffey. I have taken the album version of “Tossing, Turning and Swinging” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix adding some beats and percussion to play along. The great Motown-esque song brings back that shimmy-shimmy feel and a soulful touch that only Shalamar can create. |
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Illusion - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Illusion Illusion is an Italo-disco project from Dutch producer Bert Ruiter from 1984. This sharp beat driven track follows closely the Miami-freestyle sound coming from the club scene. This sound used a Latin-flair to accentuate the beat box stylized drum arrangements. “Illusion” uses this technique along with the Italo-disco sound to create a heartbreak tune with a sweetness which most of the female groups of freestyle were containing as a staple. This one works as the Italo-disco drums inhabit parts of the mix and rolling percussion adds to the new rhythm. The vocal has a sweetness that cannot be ignored. A nice piece of dance music from 1984 and floor filler for me. I have taken the 12” vocal and “drum mix” elements to create this ReStructure Mix which adds some new freestyle beats to give it a lift and make it move more than the hips. |
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Funky Bee Bop - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vin Zee Vin Zee Is an Italian project from Luciano Ninzatti and Stefano Pulga – both worked on projects from Kano (“I’m Ready”. “Another Life”). Their work in the early 80’s helped to create a path for Italo-disco as a progressive dance genre for its time. “Funky Bee Bop” is a slick electronic dance number that echoes a touch of rap-like vocals in a course of vocoders and funky keyboards. The use of heavy bass and synthesizers outlining the arrangement are the familiar use which gives it an identifiable sound as Kano and many projects of the time period. This one is a sharp twist from the fantasy and space themes of the time and makes more of a street statement for the Italo-disco team. I have taken the 12” vocal and dub of “Funky Bee Bop” and re-used the pieces that tick here into a new ReStructure Mix. This time around the vocals are placed within a space which breaks down the groove into more of a surprise for those like to move. The Italian disco edge is taken in with a dub feel and used as it is. |
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Boys Do Fall In Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Robin Gibb Robin Gibb is one of the voices of the Bee Gees phenomena of the 70’s were funk reared a new face with songs like “Jive Talkin’”. Robin Gibb released his third solo album in 1984 titled “Secret Agent” which included tracks produced by Mark Liggett and Chris Barbosa creators of The Shannon Sound (“Let The Music Play”). “Boys Do Fall In Love” is a track with the stamp of these innovators of electronic-street-funk and along with Gibb’s 50’s edge vocal delivery gives this one a unique feel. The track did extremely well as a pop-dance track in many clubs and welcomed the one of the most talented songwriters, producers and artists of the 70’s. I have taken the 12” version of “Boys Do Fall In Love” and blew out the street-edge and worked more of a dub-underground dance palace feel in this ReStructure Mix. More of the groovy vocal pieces are extended to make this one bring back the return of Robin Gibb on his solo efforts which has always been one of my favorites. |
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Shake It Up, Shake Your Body - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Suzy Q Suzy Q is a Canadian disco project which began from a 1981 single titled “Get On Up and Do It Again” – which featured the vocal of Carol Jiani. The success of the single brought a continuance of high energy tracks throughout the end of the 80’s. “Shake It Up, Shake Your Body” is the electronic sound which Suzy Q is formulated as with a touch of electro-funk and the voice encouraging body movement. Produced by Jerry Cucuzella whose electronic dance productions created a new underground sound for Canadian music. Suzy Q under vocalist Michelle Mills in this session works her charming vocals with that disco-femme-funk touch appropriately. I have taken the 12” version of “Shake It Up, Shake Your Body” and placed the bouncy dance track in a ReStructure Mix adding some new electro-beats below to bring this version alive. More of Suzy Q and her haunting vocals are sprinkled around the new arrangement. |
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What's Love Got To Do With...Two People - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tina Turner Tina Turner is one of the artists of the 60’s and 70’s whose energy seemed to never falter. Through a career in rock n’ roll, country, soul, and a dabble in disco she managed to pull upfront in the 80’s with her 1984 album “Private Dancer” made waves bigger than ever. A return to the stage brought respect and several pop and club hits during the 80’s and gave us more of Tina’s unique vocal delivery and a more sensitive edge. “What’s Love Got To Do With It” is the track which became an anthem for Tina’s life is one of the tracks which brings us a whole new side and along with “Two People” from 1986 displays a sensitive feel. Both were accepted well by fans and even today give a new side of long career and its shifting throughout time. I have taken “What’s Love Got To Do With It” and “Two People” to create a ReStructure Mix using parts of these songs which outline this double pairing in a new way. Both were great songs for me and I enjoyed spinning them for early evening crowds and afterhours. |
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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. |
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What Is Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Haddaway Haddaway is Alexander Nestor Haddaway and producer Dee Dee Halligan – creating a 90’s anthem in the techno-house tradition. The song was released in 1992 and brought the sound which was building at the end of the 80’s into a fashionable dance edge. “What Is Love” is the track which brought back the crossover dance song and more longevity to the disco/dance historical blend. Many dancers were lost in the emotional tug of war which the title brings to life in a rhythmic and anthem-like delivery. This is homage to the 90’s which continued to keep dance music alive with sincerity with elements of the past and future. I have taken the US 12” version of “What Is Love” and refocused on the mood of the song which takes this ReStructure Mix over a long and wandering path. More of the high peaks and stripping away the beat |
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Live It Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Time Bandits Time Bandits are a disco/funk and synth-pop band from The Netherlands who began their recording career in 1982. The band consists of Åke Danielson, Alides Hidding, Carl Buskohl and Dave van den Dries. Their music was immediately a hit on dance floors especially those who worked the hardcore dance palace tracks during the early 80’s. Their big single from 1981 titled “Live It Up” became one of the big sleepers of the period and many jocks that were spinning innovative dance playlists were on board. The eerie feel of this one which accelerates into an uplifting power chorus is a wonderful example of this bands achievement. I placed this one on peak hour playlists to crowded dance floors as a personal favorite and one which I could always be sure to stir the crowd. I have taken the 12” version of “Live It Up” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix adding more of the percussion elements sprinkled around to bring new life. The intro plays out a bit more dramatic as the new climax does but all around the original feel is still intact. |
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Anthem - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - N-Joi Techno and trance music of the 80’s were a statement to disco music. It helped uncover all of the electronic sounds and grooves created by those disco producers who used a touch of electronics to create a mood or innovation in music. Giorgio Moroder, Boris Midney, Voyage, Jacques Fred Petrus, Alec R. Costandinos, Tantra and many others brought to the forefront a stream of electronic chords which brought a whole new life to music. “Anthem” by N-Joi is a techno/house track which brought 1990 into an age of dance music using pieces and variations of techniques. The track is unforgettable when it strikes what it delivers – a simple use of sampled yet emotional pieces along with hardcore bass and a neo-classical piano insert. A very notable time for dance music and again for bands like N-Joi who broke the mold once again. I have taken the 12” version of “Anthem” and stripped away the sampled bit (which took allot of persuasion to do so) and left this ReStructure Mix bare. Using only parts of the monumental bass parts and the beautiful piano chords. It brings a whole new life to a wonderful piece of techno dance music. |
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Sugar Walls - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sheena Easton Sheena Easton became one of pop music’s surprises as she went from mild ballads to the off-set funk edge created by Prince. The sound which emulates a sort of twisted sound and almost fairy tale oriented in its vision. “Sugar Walls” is undoubtedly one of the pieces from her “A Private Heaven” album which created a stir of controversy from the oozing sensuality and suggestive lyrics. However, the Prince-funk edge brings it to an irresistible place. A big dance floor hit and one which uses Sheena in a whole new way as she uses this track as freedom for a new audience and era. I have taken the vocal and instrumental of “Sugar Walls” 12” single and reworked this ReStructure Mix with the fantasy of this imaginary place. More of the beats and clap tracks are accentuated for a deeper part of this funky piece of 80’s dance. |
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Let Yourself Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - T-Connection T-Connection is one of disco music’s great innovative bands from the mid-70’s. The band used a hardcore percussion section along with rocking guitars to create pounding disco numbers for the perfect soulful achievement. Their first big disco hit titled “Do What You Wanna Do” is a disco classic and has been covered several times. “Let Yourself Go” comes from the album “On Fire” from 1977 and is the sound of disco evolving from soul and funk to a hardcore disco arrangement. Their use of drums, percussions and at times whistles is one of the big assets. This band is probably one of the most original for their time. I have taken the 12” version of “Let Yourself Go” and recreated a ReStructure Mix using the great guitar break for more of the basis of the mix. The congas and bongos are also broken into segments for more of this celebration of freedom and music innovation. |
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Midnight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Passengers Passengers are an Italo-disco group who is best known for their big dance floor hit “Hot Leather” from 1979. The group consists of Chuck Rolando, Elwanda Contreras, Gesualdo Arena and Kathleen Flynn on vocals and arrangements by Celso Valli (Tantra, Lama, V.I.S.A., and Nuggets). “Midnight” is a single released in 1981 and is pure Italo-disco laid out – produced by Angelo and Felix Piccarreda. This one is more of an early morning sound with the synths rolling in a hypnotic arrangement and keyboards sparkling the sound of magic throughout. A different edge than more of their high energy pieces but more of a deeper feel for their uplifting vocals. I have taken the 12” single of “Midnight” and reworked parts of the song to make this ReStructure Mix which uses more percussion to pump the energy up. It remains as the original as far as vocal arrangements and just a few effects and loops added to the instrumental arrangement to make it last longer. |
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Up Your Bum - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Edwards and Armani New Beat music is a dissection of the disco synthesizer placed in format which presents each pulse and edge in a simple arrangement. The end of the 80’s brought various styles of dance music including techno, house, acid house and new/Belgium beat. “Up Your Bum” by Edwards and Armani is a prime example of the use of several elements blended to create an underground sound. Many artists and producers of this new wave of music were obsessed with the deep synthesizer integration. Most tracks contained the heavy disco beat along with chords of a bass line which echoed throughout each track. Edwards and Armani create a sound which is a raw version of tracks like “Pump Up The Volume” with the bass taking complete control. This is one piece which I enjoyed injecting as a dub relief in many sets that kept the floor moving over and over to the instrumental play which would soon become the emphasis of rave and 90’s techno. I have taken the 12” of “Up Your Bum” – using both “Desert” and “Acid Control” Mixes to complete a new layout for this ReStructure Mix. It uses a few new samples to place it back into the proper channel and breaks pieces of it into a whole new arrangement. A salute to the New Beat/Belgium Beat sound of the 80’s and 90’s. |
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Do It Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Voyage Voyage is one of the big disco productions whom took the disco theme and made it an art form. Their first two projects were appropriately along the subject of their name where the non-stop music took dancers around the world and back with subjects related to places and travel. In the early 80’s the project took a new edge with more of a funky sound in several tracks and synth-pop/new wave pieces. The funk treatment was performed well and left another classic from Voyage titled “I Love You Dancer”. However another groove from the project titled “Do It Again” is one which had an infectious chorus riff which kept solid in my mind at the time and throughout this ReStructure Mix. The track is the work of Marc Chantereau, Pierre-Alain Dahan and Slim Pezin who are original players from the sessions. They create a memorable sound that takes the “voyage” off of the original sound and makes it their own thanks to their talent and dedication to dance music. I have taken the album version of “Do It Again” and created a new ReStructure Mix which outlines this nice funk song with more beats and phasing effects. The lengthier and beat driven version are a tribute to Voyage and the dance floors of the 80’s which proved that dancing was not yet over. |
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Never Can Say Goodbye - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sonia & Nancy “Never Can Say Goodbye” is a classic soul song originally recorded by The Jackson Five in 1971 and released on their “Maybe Tomorrow”. The song has since been covered by many artists and groups – in the disco realm more notably by Gloria Gaynor in the 70s and The Communards in the 80’s. High energy music brought a synth-pop version in 1986 and produced by high-energy extraordinaire, Mr. Fonny De Wulf who sprinkled the 80’s with the sound of this new sensational dance floor recipe. Sonia and Nancy recorded this single as their one and only release which made many playlist for jocks who were spinning to the crowds who could not get enough of the rolling energy. The production by De Wulf is the flowing feel of the song of heartbreak along with more percussion and synthesizers. I have taken the 12” version of Sonia and Nancy’s “Never Can Say Goodbye” and used pieces of the deep hardcore elements to recreate this ReStructure Mix. It pays homage to this sound of the 80’s which kept many dancing throughout the period and even today. |
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You're Lying - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Linx Linx is a U.K. funk band with David Grant and Peter Martin. Their recordings include two albums both released in 1981. “Intuition” is the first project and contained the single “You’re Lying” which made a nice impact on dance floors. A compromised relationship is finally confronted in this song where a worn half confronts the second with the facts which are dishonesty and a line drawn. This one worked wonders for me in my club for a time when dance music was shifting and more of a slick pop-funk attitude is expressed. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “You’re Lying” and worked the groove into a ReStructure Mix which extends more of the underlying bass and rhythm for a complete dance experience. A new percussion layer is added throughout the edit from Kraze Moonfou’s “Voodoo Sun” for a lift of energy. |
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Burnin' Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madonna Madonna released her first album in 1983 following two 12” releases a year earlier. One of the singles released prior to her self-titled project was a pumping synth-pop track titled “Burning Up” written by Madonna and labeled “Fast Side” on the vinyl. Produced by Reggie Lucas – who also co-produced songs by Phyllis Hyman (“You Know How To Love Me”) and Stephanie Mills (“Put Your Body In It”). He was also the second talent in a duo called Mtume. “Burning Up” is one of the electronic dance pieces of the time which had a big impact on the return to high energy dance with the synth-pop edge. The song is a great opportunity for Madonna to give a hard-edged rock delivery with her unique touch of sweetness that turns to fire in a flash. The success of the single along with “Physical Attraction” brought an anxious to dance floors and disc-jockeys everywhere. I have taken the 12” version of “Burning Up” along with a rare instrumental to re-weave Madonna’s classic into a hardcore ReStructure Mix. There is more of a teasing intro and sustained looping to make this pumping energy give its load again. I can remember using two 12” singles to remix this one over and over when it was released so an extended and revised version has always been the direction for me. |
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Magic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Five Sinners Italo-disco was a guiding force in dance music during the early 80’s. Many of the producers and artists worked at stripping away the large production ensemble and create a raw and simple sound based on the bass synthesizers and keyboard elements. It was a return to the early formula of disco music during its formulation in the early and mid-70’s. Five Sinners is a project from Giuliano Saglia and Silvio Trisolino from 1982 – and along with writer and arranger Celso Valli created a dance hall classic. During the late 70s when disco was rejected by major labels in the US many of the big hardcore dance tracks were becoming more of Italian, German and small label releases. “Magic” is one of the deep sounding tracks that resonate this period. It may have been influenced by groups like Change – yet the influence created its own sound. I have taken the 12” version of “Magic” and created a dreamier version using parts of two big 70’s pop-hits in this ReStructure Mix. There are a few DJ mix elements used to bring back that early morning feeling of being lost in the song and also some phasing and rearranging. |
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Dance And Leave It All Behind You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sumeria Sumeria is a disco project from disco producer, Alec R. Costandinos. This project reflects his earlier work with Love and Kisses and Sphinx. A fully orchestrated production and pieces of a disco journey of a woman who following a torrid break from a bad relationship meets a mysterious stranger who we learn is from another galaxy. They fall in love and it seems as the time comes to return and his own and leaving his new love brings heartache and “golden tears”. Costandinos makes this disco symphony every moment worth the dance and storyline that he creates beautifully. One of the great moments in disco history is these Euro-disco productions that enabled many dance floors to transform into a stage for feet and imagination. I have taken segments of “Dance And Leave It All Behind You” along with pieces of tracks from this tale and transformed them into a new ReStructure Mix. The bassline has been amended to give this new version a slow fade in and out. More of the powerful chorus is worked and the orchestrations are built as they were intended to outline our journey. |
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Celebration - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kool and The Gang Kool and The Gang took the dance floor in 1970 when they released their first album. Their dedication to soul music and the eventual transformation of it into many genres and style throughout the 70’s, 80’s and even today. ”Celebration” is their big 1980 hit which made an impact from its release and is now an old school classic. Co-produced by Eumir Deodato and displays his signature keyboard riffs and play. The song has made dance floors feel the excitement that is an ingredient here and in many of Kool and The Gangs soulful club records. I have taken the album version – both vocal and instrumental to recreate the peak of the “Celebration” in this ReStructure Mix. It moves into a whole new realm of execution and is most definitely a play of the songs content. |
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Don't Make Me Wait - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - N.Y.C. Peech Boys N.Y.C. Peech Boys are an experimental electronic dance project from 1982 whose moves were influenced by the aura of an underground club called Paradise Garage. Along with Larry Levan this early sound began a phase of electronic house and funk using a brand of soulful chorus leading to a new vocal sound. This sound became the brand for the Paradise Garage sound in the early 80’s and eventually lead into a style called house. “Don’t Make Me Wait” is a mysteriously ominous track that begins teasingly and then leads to a crescendo of soulful male harmonies. It is one of the pieces which made the disco label West End Records the tribute record company of the dance era. It seemed that the excitement this one created was welcomed from the fallout of disco music in the late 70’s. I have taken the vocal and the dub of the 12” of “Don’t Make Me Wait” and worked this ReStructure Mix into a whole new form. Where many of the beats are void throughout the original arrangement there is now a constant rhythm to pulse the orgasmic track. This one is a tribute to the Paradise Garage and Mr. Larry Levan. |
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Rain - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Goombay Dance Band Goombay Dance Band is a German dance band whose single “Rain” from 1980 brought the hardcore disco/club scene to life once again. Recreating the sound of disco music for the 80’s with a full on take on fantasy and stage presence – very similar to bands like Boney M. The band released projects with their Caribbean sound echoing throughout tracks which many fit the direction in where dance music was becoming empowered once again. The production by Jochen Petersen is also assisted by Michael Cretu (Sandra, Enigma) here and work with nice results as displayed in “Rain”. I have taken the 12” version of “Rain” and focused on a dub/instrumental take for this ReStructure Mix. The pounding drums and heavy synth and chorus parts are still intact here even through the original is stretched into a new arrangement. |
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One Night Lover Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lenore O'Malley Lenore O’Malley is disco singer who released her first project in 1979 titled “First Be A Woman” – produced by Michaele/Lana and Paul Sebastian (who also produced Theo Vaness and Madleen Kane). The album is one of the last during the disco era with the Euro-disco sound and features a production which echoes that of Voyage and Alec R. Costandinos. “One Night Lover Man” is a single from the album which is a club record right from the start. It plays out with a nice guitar riff that flows into a defiant Lenore informing her male onlookers that she is out for love. It is a fun and bouncy track that I always found as a treasure that fit the essence of European club music. It is one of the nice parts of this project and gives Lenore a nice opportunity to play the club chanteuse in a clever way. I have taken the album version of “One Night Light Lover Man” and created a ReStructure Mix which gives the rhythm tracks more power with some added drum beats and new phasing effects. It is a lengthier version than the album and has a few segments that are placed to extend the energy. |
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Vision Of The Future - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Segue Segue is a high-energy dance project from producer Kevin Anthony Roberts – who also gave us projects from Simone (“It’s Too Late”), Shirley Lewis (“Didn’t Say A Word”), Linda Lewis (“You Turned My Bitter Into Sweet”), Kofi and The Lovetones (“Countdown”) and Thing (“Alien Attack”). “Vision Of The Future” was released in 1984 as medley and tribute to alternative electronic/synth-pop dance music and featured pieces of “Blue Monday” by New Order, “Kiss Me” by Tin Tin, and “Lucifer’s Friend” by Vision. The flowing energy has always captured my attention and a desire to capture this growing sound called high-energy. The pieces of the works in the medley are the shining example of the power of the 80’s takeover of the electronic keyboard and sequencers. Homage to that period and the creative edge of the artists. I have taken the 12” long version of “Vision Of The Future” and recreated a ReStructure Mix which pulls out parts of the medley which work to create its own. Much of the thumping beats from “Blue Monday” are included along with the jittery percussion elements and rolling bass sequencers. This one plays out with a few breaks and revitalized segments. |
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Love's Theme - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Love Unlimited Orchestra Barry White and his Love Unlimited Orchestra are the backbone of disco music. His orchestrations over bass guitars, drums and percussion created a need for beautiful music with rhythm and soul enhancing the edge. “Love’s Theme” from 1974 is one of the funky tracks with the soaring strings and horns which bring to mind the Philadelphia sound as it matured into disco music the mid-70s. One of the biggest records in soul music during the time and an influence on music to come. A big radio and club track and a piece of disco history worth shouting about. I have taken the album version of “Love’s Theme” and created a ReStructure Mix which uses the strings to an advantage for more of that flowing magic. There are a few breaks along the way added and a fade that is only more enticing to hear more. |
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Coming From The Dark - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gary Gary is a new beat styled piece from K Productions – a group who began releasing alternative electronic dance singles in the late 80’s. It was the impact of the New Beat sound which came from the industrial side of dance music along with an edge that was raw and at times more of a dub excursion. A deep focus on the EQ of each synthesizer was also a trait in this genre. “Coming From The Dark” is a mysterious track that follows the house influence with a piano pounding in the distance of many deep bass keyboards and sequencers. This deep dark underground feel is the heart and soul of what Belgium Beat was all about. It is one of the hardcore pieces which would work on my dance floor afterhours or during a New Beat set. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to recreate again “Coming From The Dark” in the ReStructure Mix vein. It has a few added effects and drum fills to accent the rolling and ominous sound and also plays out a bit more break wise. |
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Love Come Down - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Evelyn King Evelyn “Champagne” King is one of the divas from the disco era who made the dance floor feels like home. Her big 1977 disco hit “Shame” was a union of soul and disco which made a big mark during its release and in time. Her career throughout the early 80’s gave the new disco-funk more of her fantastic vocal performances. “Love Come Down” is from her 1982 album, “Get Loose” and produced by Kashif and Morrie Brown. This love song is one of the greatest pieces from Ms. King and the production lives up to the old school tradition. It was one of the biggest dance floor packers for me and I can only remember extending this one over and over. The magic of the sound which Kashif created at this time was a frame for King’s talent. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to recreate a new ReStructure Mix with some edits and looping to bring those deep grooves to life again. This revisit makes the breaks more of the opulence of what disco-funk is. |
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Fire Me Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Astaire Astaire is one of the early studio groups in the high energy genre during the early 80’s. From the classic UK high energy label Passion Records and producers Nigel Stock and John Davies who helped again to revive the dance community with a new catalogue of artists and songs and a few remixed or reissued disco classics. “Fire Me Up” is sung by vocalist Tracy Ackerman who is one of the beautiful and powerful voices of the time in dance music. This teasing love song is set with a strong desire to start a new romance with impact beyond control. The title says it all. The production is the high-end keyboard echoing throughout pounding drums and percussion – always reminding me of a haunting “disco-Phantom of the Opera” sound. This is a single from 1986 where the energy was still alive and the sound was bringing dancers back to the floor again. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Fire Me Up” and reedited a ReStructure Mix using a few tag-lines from the verses to bring a new intro and some breaks to life. The rolling deep synths and striking keyboards are still intact so that the original form is again appreciated. |
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Get A Little - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Cowley Patrick Cowley has taken the legacy of Giorgio Moroder from the mid-70’s and transformed the gadgetry of electronics and applied them with his heart and mind. Cowley’s use of keyboards and synthesizers were applied as if a 50’s sci-fi flick was in use of an extreme soundtrack. In the underground tradition of disco and club music this was again a return to the basics and the stripped production. “Get A Little” is from the album “Megatron Man” from 1981 which catapulted his dance floor fame to a higher plane than his earlier “Menergy” project. It was obvious that the 80’s were still a place for adventurous dance music. This track features the vocals of Carol McMackin, Jo-Carol Block and Lauren Carter also known as Jo-Lo. I have taken the album version of “Get A Little” and worked some swirling effects into a new psychedelic ReStructure Mix. It is where I feel Cowley was directing his sound. There are more looped effects and drop-ins to give the song a new feel. |
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I'm Ready For Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Melody Stewart Melody Stewart is a Canadian vocalist whose disco career began in 1980 with the help of producers Joe La Greca and Joe Marandola – her first album “Action Satisfaction” is one of the high energy sound beginning during the early 80’s. Another single from the album titled “Get Down, Get Down” is marked as another classic with DJs and dancers. The following year Melody’s single, a cover of Martha & The Vandellas 1966 soul classic “I’m Ready For Love” was released as a single produced by Bill Hill and John Farley. This single was a fine example of transposing a song from one genre to another with a new production sound. More of a mid-tempo early morning piece with much of the electronic effects that made the prior production with a studio group titled Hydro. This gem is one of my all-time favorite genres and singles in this style. I have taken the 12” version of Melody Stewart’s “I’m Ready For Love” along with the original and pieced a ReStructure Mix for a tribute to both. Melody’s wonderful yearning and sultry delivery give this number its mark and I have left it all intact but in new segments. A great Canadian release from the producers who saved the dance floors in the early 80’s. |
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Get On Up And Do It Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Suzy Q Suzy Q began as a studio group with the lead vocals of Ms. Carol Jiani (“Mercy”, “Hit ‘N Run Lover”) upfront in this electronic funk ride. One of the big early 80’s downbeat dance hits from Canada and producers Jerry Cucuzella. This bass driven number delivers a groove that is contagious and fills in non-stop energy. Later the vocals of Suzy Q were filled by Michelle Mills and many hits later we know Suzy Q as one of those unforgettable disco acts that deliver more than one punch. I have taken the original 12” version of “Get On Up And Do It Again” with Carol Jiani on vocals and reworked a new ReStructure Mix. The funky bass lines are dotted with more percussion and Carol’s sexy ad-libs to deliver a new level of funk. |
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Fly On U.F.O. - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chromium Chromium is a disco studio project from producer Trevor Horn – and features Alma Thibou, Anne Dudley, Geoff Downes, Linda Allen, and Vikki Spence. Their 1979 album “Star To Star” is one of the centerpiece productions of the disco era which explores the space theme with the singles “Fly On U.F.O.” and “Caribbean Air Control”. A galactic adventure with the uplifting disco edge which came along with many bands like The Rockets, Mc Lane Explosion and Space. Even though this project makes a few detours into themes outside of the 70’s space episodes it does create the mood with the imagery and keyboards utilized throughout the production. I have taken the 12” version of “Fly On U.F.O.” and used bass segments from several breaks to recreate a new blend for this ReStructure Mix. The disco track always reminded me of the closing titles to a space adventure film. It plays out with more of the chorus through filters and broken into several instrumental additions here. |
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It's Just Begun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jimmy Castor Bunch The Jimmy Castor Bunch released their first album titled “It’s Just Begun” in 1972 and began a new funk edge which dominated the growth of the music from this period on. The wah-wah guitars which started the energy in funk as the emphasis in the title track which we are focused on here. It is a cult classic among many who have started with this inception of the groove or later who researched and discovered the magic of it. “It’s Just Begun” is a positive and uplifting number which tells the story of the start of a world of peace and prosperity. The sound of Jimmy Castor is written from start to finish in this number and makes it a monumental dance piece throughout time. I have taken the album version of “It’s Just Begun” and the instrumental groove to recreate a new ReStructure Mix in homage to the Jimmy Castor sound. There is a beat driven intro with phasing to kick up the excitement and a fade that gives the positive message a ringing end. |
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Spys - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Roni Griffith Roni Griffith is a performer who began a musical career with August Darnell’s ensemble, Kid Creole and The Coconuts. Her solo career began with a dance floor hit – a cover of the 1967 song by The Symbols – “(The Best Part Of) Breaking Up”. Roni along with producer Bobby Orlando transformed the original heavy downbeat psychedelic track into a disco hit. The song helped during its release in 1982 to rejuvenate dance floors once again for a full disco sound with a heavy percussion drive that Orlando is well known for. “Spys” is a single from the self-titled album from Roni from the same year and displays once again the Bobby Orlando method with a rolling synthesizer pattern and Roni emphasizing an addition to a romance. In Orlando’s original mix there are samples that inflict a bit of the New Beat realm that was soon to come and may have given the initial influence. The song is a bit haunting and always reminded me of a deep afterhours feel. I have taken the album version of “Spys” and transformed the hardcore piece into a darker mix in this ReStructure interlude. Adding a few percussion sprinkles to give it more of a rhythmic edge. It delves a bit more in the tangled web of the original and plays out to those hardcore dance floor periods. |
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House of The Rising Sun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bona-Riah Bona-Riah is a disco/high energy project from 1987 produced by disco singer, Hazell Dean and Pete Ware (also produced tracks for Divine). This tail end of the 80’s feature is a morphing of the Stock, Aitken and Waterman sound which made dance floors flourish again with projects from Rick Astley, Kylie Minogue, Bananarama and many more. The high end percussion and jittery hand claps were a prominent staple in the rhythmic qualities as used here in there 12” of “House Of The Rising Sun” – a cover of The Animals classic. Another version was needed and a rolling energy like this was welcomed during the high energy 80’s dance movement. The thumping street beats which stomp out the breaks are another traditional piece used. Vocals are a bit distant and strange but work with the chorus as it creates that haunting feel this song is remembered by. I have taken the 12” version of Bona-Riah’s “House Of The Rising Sun” and took the song deeper into retro with pieces of the original and also breaking the vocal up so that it flows fast and furious. This ReStructure Mix is another tribute to the high energy period which helped to keep the “disco spirit” alive. Thank you, Hazell Dean and Pete Ware. |
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Love's Comin' At Ya - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Melba Moore Melba Moore is one of the true disco artists who came at the inception of the disco era boom. Her big singles “You Stepped Into My Life” and “Pick Me I’ll Dance” are placemats for a dance floor and are now dance classics. Melba’s 1982 album “The Other Side Of The Rainbow” gave us another opportunity to hear her power in a new electronic-funk sound produced by Kashif. It was a new groove created with a morphed keyboard playing out like a Jimmy Hendrix guitar. The single “Love’s Comin’ At Ya” is one of the tracks that I would play out for packed dance floors using two copies to extend for a wanting crowd. It is also one of my favorite moments when Melba’s vocals take a song and make it more lyrical and sweet. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Love’s Comin’ At Ya” to recreate this ReStructure Mix and add a touch more of a dub and dreamy feel to the original soul. It has a longer take off and a smooth fade. It is a great feeling to hear that 80’s funk sound exploding all over again. |
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Midnight In Manhattan - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Seventh Avenue Seventh Avenue is a disco ensemble from producer Ian Levine and arranger Fiachra Trench. Released in 1979 on AVI Records this production had a listing of more musicians and players to create this lush and beautiful adventure. “Midnight In Manhattan” is the title track which begins a journey on the dance floor to key points where disco was fired up on the round. The group resurfaced again in the early and mid-80’s as a high energy band with the same genius, Mr. Ian Levine creating a similar yet new sound for the dance period. It was quite an exciting transition and one that marked a whole new row of hits for Seventh Avenue and even though the group members may have changed the energy remained. “Midnight In Manhattan” is the stamp of the disco nightlife where the energy takes over as the feel of New York’s intensity would. A great piece to research for the big disco/orchestral production. I have taken the album version of “Midnight In Manhattan” and used the segments with the crisscross rhythms to recreate the track in this ReStructure Mix. The breaks are the centerpiece as disco history is known for. The long album version is consolidated for a new trip once again into the disco era. |
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Don't Cry For Me Argentina - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Festival Festival is another project from Boris Midney – an innovative producer, writer and arranger who transformed Philly disco into a new art form. His colors consisted of the percussion which he placed over disco beats and electronic interludes and swirling disco strings. His projects are all cult pieces which are respected and viewed as the framing of where disco music made its finale statement in the late 70’s. Festival is a mature production from Midney where he transforms parts of the Broadway musical “Evita” into a disco celebration. “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina” was the first focus of the project and created quite a stir on dance floors and continues to relay the best of the disco Evita series to today. The production is still an art form where Midney creates a unique feel which brings us to another place on the dance floor that is sheer fantasy. I have taken the album version of “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina” and recreated a new phase for both the song and the disco version in this ReStructure Mix. More dub-like parts are generated from the original production. A new intro and fade are added to make the experience more of a journey. |
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Sia-Sioù (Breakin' Up) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Esavu Esavu is an Italo-disco project from Paolo Granelli. One of the tracks from this genre of music which relayed the sound which the 80’s took note of on many dance floors. The rolling synthesizers which brought the electronic sound of disco alive following the footsteps of Giorgio Moroder and his genius. Their first release “Sia-Sioù (Breakin' Up)” is an odd piece that flows infectiously to the mind and feet. Lots of lyrical riffs and the statements that keyboards and synthesizers made which marked dance history. One of those Italian singles which to me always looked forward to blending into one of those intense sets. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Sia-Sioù (Breakin' Up)” and worked with the pieces of this track to recreate the magic of Italo-disco in this ReStructure Mix. The elements that are important to the song are left intact and used in new ways to play out this nice melody over again. |
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Mi Corazón - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kat Mandu I have taken the album version of “Mi Corazón” and reworked the percussion into a new ReStructure Mix which points towards the full-force percussion and the sweetness of the theme and vocals. |
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Don't Beat Around The Bush - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Sasoul Orchestra The Salsoul Orchestra is the landmark ensemble featuring players who blended a beautiful sound from Philly-soul, Latin percussion and the new arrangement of dance music called Salsoul Disco. The story is well told as the tracks from their 1975 disco album play out the message and groove. “Don’t Beat Around The Bush” is a piece from their 1976 album “Nice ‘N Nasty” which was produced, arranged and conducted by Vincent Montana Jr. It is another slick piece of music which brings to mind the disco touch dancing period. There is a similarity in each of this orchestra’s numbers although each stands out on its own with the sexy innuendos and alluring Latin percussion. The pounding drums in “Don’t Beat Around The Bush” are like a powerful tribal edge that is infectious. I have taken the album version of “Don’t Beat Around The Bush” and placed the drums into a new take in this ReStructure Mix. More edits and loops give a more open feel to the groove. It is a salute to The Salsoul Orchestra and the master Mr. Vincent Montana Jr. |
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Megatron Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Deadline Deadline is a disco project from producer Phillipe Renaux – a man whose innovative touch during the late 70’s was a big part of what is now known as “space disco” – with projects Chris Craft, Soft Energy and Toni Van Duyne. It is this project Deadline that he pays homage to another master of the aural sounds of the outer universe, Mr. Patrick Cowley. “Megatron Man” is a track which Cowley released in 1981 which helped to keep disco music alive in a new edge of electronic and psychedelic like moods. It was the early signs of disco morphing again into another style called high energy. Phillipe’s project Deadline is a more downbeat feel yet contributes a proper cover of the Cowley classic. Is an alternative play for those who follow Cowley’s work as a cult sound and also another great moment in 80’s dance history all together. I have taken the 12” version of Deadline’s “Megatron Man” and changed the mood once again in this ReStructure Mix. More emphasis on the abstract keyboards and the mystical mood of the theme of this San Francisco disco classic. |
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I Wanna Be Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rose Rose is Elena Ferretti and a disco project from Italo-disco producer Giacomo Maiolini. The Italo-disco movement was one which helped to preserve the disco dance floor feel as well as create several new facets of dance music. High energy music soon became to being as this style of music morphed into a new influence. “I Wanna Be Your Love” is the fifth single by Rose and is one of the most beautiful. It is lyrical and also pumps enough synth and keyboard expertise to make a dance floor take notice. The vocal is a sweetness that is one of the assets of Italo-disco which made its own success. I have taken the original import 12” vocal version of “I Wanna Be Your Love” and created a new blossoming ReStructure Mix. This one uses parts of the original to make a new statement in a dub-like manner. More breaks and flowing edits make it an new dance experience. |
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Manhunt - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Silhouette with Jeanie Tracy Silhouette is an 80’s high energy project from producer Tip Wirrick – who was Sylvester’s guitarist during his reign. Tip went onto many dance projects including Loverde. Silhouette is a high energy concept with fabulous vocals by Jeanie Tracy who takes this number into a rousing call for excitement. “Manhunt” is one of the 80’s songs which made the high energy scene via San Francisco a place worth dancing to. This one was always a favorite of mine since the energy takes a whole emphasis in the tradition of disco music. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Manhunt” and reworked the monster track into a new ReStructure Mix. A longer intro in fade-in ready and the rolling breaks are used as the departure. The vocal remains where it needs to be, as Jeanie works the heck out of this number. |
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You Got It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kumano Kumano is a band lead by Randy Kumano and released their first album on Prelude Records in 1980 and also featured the big dance floor hit, “I’ll Cry For You”. The lead singer, Stuart Peterson has one of the most haunting and emotional masculine voices in disco music – as heard in the first album. The sound is a 70’s soft rock edge with a disco beat. “You Got It” is from the album and is another nice piece of music from the early 80’s which gives off the Prelude/New York disco sound in full energy. It was always a second choice for my sets which needed a smooth breakdown or just a break from rolling energy into more of an emotional climb. I have taken the album version of “You Got It” and worked it into a new ReStructure Mix adding more drums, percussion and a new arrangement. This new take is a tribute to the manifested disco sound of the late 70’s and also a great musician as Randy Kumano whose blues and R&B dedication is broken here to deliver a wonderful disco project. |
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Fake - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Karen Silver Karen Silver is a disco singer from Canada who worked with producer Gino Soccio on several projects including her first solo album with the single “Hold On I’m Comin’” – an electronic cover of Sam and Dave’s soul classic. This brought Karen to the forefront during this important period in disco history where stars were emerging and taking their place as fixtures on club playlists and disco radio shows. Karen’s single “Fake” is also from this project and features much of the experimental work which Gino Soccio was taking into his hands and making successful tracks for the dance floor with. This number is a simple line drawn for a relationship that failed to last in Karen’s eyes and now takes on a touch of bitterness. It has the flowing edge that works well with Karen’s unique vocal style and comes alive with Soccio’s magic. I have taken the 12” remix of “Fake” and worked a new ReStructure Mix using the same emphasis which worked on the original – focusing on the echo and flanging effects to recreate a new electric foreground. It plays out a touch more dub-like and keeps Karen as the main stage star again, of this track. nd music in its creative force, |
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Locomotion - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ritz Ritz is Kofi Missah, Ruby James and Tony Jackson – a disco project from producer Ken Gold who also brought us music from Delegation and The Real Thing. Their 1979 album “Puttin’ On The Ritz” is one of the disco projects which were released before the disco wave began to take a shift. The album included a cover of Little Eva’s 1962 hit. “Locomotion” which is produced in the electronic disco fashion which blossomed to its full extent at the end of the 70s. This jittery syncopated version is successful thanks to its vocals from Ritz and the sharp production. A favorite of mine and also one of those songs which marks a generation and music in its creative force, I have taken the 12” of “Locomotion” and recreated a new trip for this ReStructure Mix. The original path of the song has been broken into parts and reedited to accompany more of the rolling locomotive feel with more of a dub edge. It is a departure from the original with more stops for those who can’t get enough synth and percussion. |
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Heart Beat - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vivian Vee Vivian Vee made a wonderful transition into the late 80’s club music scene in 1987 with her high-energy hit “Heart Beat”. This time under the production of Alvaro Ugolini and Darlo Raimondi (of Fun Fun) and with more of the power that the dance floors required. The track begins with a strong percussion baseline and climbs level by level to a range where Vivian’s soft and childlike voice becomes a presence we have never heard before. It is one of the high-energy favs among those who followed the Italo-disco scene and knew what it was morphing into at the time. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental version of “Heart Beat” and translated the long song into a new ReStructure Mix. Using more of the instrumental to create a new flowing edge for this powerhouse song. |
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Get Off - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Foxy Foxy is Ish Ledesma, Arnold Paseiro, Charlie Murciano, Joe Galdo and Richie Puente. The funk was brought to the hilt with bands like Foxy during the disco years. The blend of slamming beats and the aural essence of the club scene made this sound a new edge. “Get Off” is from their second album from 1978 with the same title. This track is now an old school and disco classic and maintains it funkiness with its party atmosphere and kickin’ rhythm. A huge shift for both dance floors and disco in the late 70s and perhaps one of the big influences on soon to emerge 80’s punk funk. I have taken the 12” version of “Get Off” and re-chopped and assembled the groove into a ReStructure Mix to pay tribute to this monster. It works into a mere frenzy with more of the parts that make it one of those hard to not move and forget numbers. |
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Why - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carly Simon Carly Simon is one of the voices of the 70’s which marked the era with some amazing recordings including “You’re So Vain” and “That’s The Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be”. Her departure from contemporary 70’s ballads to dance music in 1982 was a single produced by Nile Rogers and Bernard Edwards titled “Why”. One of the big surprises of the period with more of a reggae/ska feel but in every sense the work of the disco masters Chic. The song fared well with disco fans and those who followed the success of the men from Chic. The lasting edge on this track is the haunting riff that somehow creates a lasting movement for the mind and heart. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Why” and placed it in the ReStructure Mix realm. Adding more of the intro and breaks to give this song of heartbreak more of a lasting groove in that reggae style. |
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Sunset People - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - E.G. Daily E.G. Daily is a singer/actress who released her first album “Wild Child” in 1985 which featured a cover of Donna Summer’s “Sunset People” – produced by Harold Faltermeyer who also assisted in the original production. The rough edge in E.G.’s vocal style helps to give the new version a slight rock edge in the 80’s feel. It is noteworthy that this new artist who took a few dance singles on the charts and to clubs gave a tribute to the great song which Donna made a classic dance number. It was another sign that the 80’s still signaled more dancing for the upcoming years. I have taken the album version of “Sunset People” and slightly pitched it down for this ReStructure Mix and also sliced the synthesizers and keyboards to give the new version a new edge. It also adds some deep bass moog and hit hat as a new foundation for the energy. |
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Maybe (We Should Call It A Day) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hazell Dean Hazell Dean is best known for her high energy anthems which always took center stage thanks to her magnifying and emotional delivery. Her tracks always captured the heart of the matter along with the transformation of a ballad like song with a dance beat. “Maybe (We Should Call It A Day)” is one of Hazell’s most touching dance numbers since it deals with the end of a troubled romance and echoes the pain and heartache with a stirring disco arrangement thanks to the production team of Stock Aitken and Waterman. This track was always one of my favorites for many reasons and one of the main attractions is Hazell’s ability to make pain sound so beautiful. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental and worked a new ReStructure Mix for a tribute to this mini-anthem. More of the percussion is used as the new punch and a few new verses added to give this new version more of the same emotion and energy. |
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To Hell With Him - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Taka Boom Taka Boom is a soul diva who made each track she touches a force. Her powerful voice is one of the most recognized from many of the top dance tracks of the late seventies including “You + Me = Love” with Undisputed Truth, “Mr. DJ, You Know How To Make Me Dance” with Glass Family, and her big disco hit, “Night Dancin’” from her solo album. “To Hell With Him” is from her 1983 project “Boomerang” – produced by disco producer extraordinaire, Mr. Bob Esty. The track is a crossover from the 70’s disco arrangements to the new hard-hitting electronic dance 80’s – and both dot his successfully. The song was as big as “It’s Raining Men” in my club and made dancers shout along with Taka. The production plays out with a chorus of upset and defiance yet the song is a dark celebration that is irresistible. A great piece of 80’s dance from two of disco’s best. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “To Hell With Him” and used the sharp edged production in parts to recreate this ReStructure Mix. More of the beats and slams are incorporated as the energy and some samples of Taka as we previously knew her are added. |
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Everybdy Is Dancing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ken Laslo Ken Laslo is one of the Italo-disco artists who made the 80’s mysterious and exciting. His first single “Hey Hey Guy” from 1984 was one of the tracks that helped to recreate a flowing energy on dance floors and more points in the Italo-disco music arena. “Everybody Is Dancing” is his 1989 single that was one of my all-time favorites from that year. An uplifting and energetic piece that roars quietly but effectively. Another big dance floor generator for me and a reason to place Ken Laslo once again in the realm of the true Italo-disco sound. I have taken the vocal and instrumental from the 12” of “Everybody Is Dancing” and used the recognizable riffs and hooks to make this ReStructure Mix pull some new tricks to the surface. The uplifting keyboards are extended and played into a new arrangement. |
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Livin' Thing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Electric Liught Orchestra Electric Light Orchestra is the 70’s band which made pop radio a pleasant place to lend an ear. Their music has given the period a new edge in execution and energy. Their 1976 track “Livin’ Thing” is one of the contagious songs by this landmark band and the gypsy violins are the added points. More of a rock-edged pop number this one I always wanted to display on a crowded dance floor as a retro set. It is one of the 70’s treasures and will leave the band as the maker of a sound of a generation. I have taken the album version and transformed the original into a rousing ReStructure Mix using beats and claps to pace it out for a stomping workout. The strings and guitars are lengthened to create a forceful remix and the intro and fade are for the excitement in general. |
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I Love New York - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Metropolis featuring The Sweethearts of Sigma Metropolis is a disco project from Pete Bellotte, Thor Baldursson and Salsoul Records. The album titled “The Greatest Show On Earth” was released in 1978 and featured a big band and full orchestrated disco arrangement. This project also featured the well-known ensemble The Sweethearts of Sigma who were found backing many, many disco artists and studio sessions. The power of their vocals is felt in this recording where each track gives the group a moment to harmonize and take the most out of the disco sound. “I Love New York” was the first successful single and is now regarded as a Salsoul disco classic. I have taken the 12” version of “I Love New York” and repainted the town in a dub-feel ReStructure Mix. Much of the moog and keyboard riffs are separated and then reapplied. It is the big band sound meets beat street. |
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Could It Be Magic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dante's Inferno Paradise Express is Herb Jimmerson and Vi Ann. Their first big dance floor hit from 1978 was a cover of Paul Jabara’s “Dance” and created a fascination with Herb’s amazing keyboard work and Vi Ann’s fantastic vocals. It was a blend that disco music had waited for during the last years of the era. “Nowhere To Run” is from their second project titled “Let’s Fly” and is a cover of Martha and The Vandella’s Motown classic. This interpretation is one that brings the electronic arrangement into a realm of deep underground gratification. It gives off the essence of a Patrick Cowley Mega-mix that was a sound that exploded in the early 80s. A nice dream-like edge is one that gives the classic a new stage, |
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Nowhere To Run - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paradise Express Paradise Express is Herb Jimmerson and Vi Ann. Their first big dance floor hit from 1978 was a cover of Paul Jabara’s “Dance” and created a fascination with Herb’s amazing keyboard work and Vi Ann’s fantastic vocals. It was a blend that disco music had waited for during the last years of the era. “Nowhere To Run” is from their second project titled “Let’s Fly” and is a cover of Martha and The Vandella’s Motown classic. This interpretation is one that brings the electronic arrangement into a realm of deep underground gratification. It gives off the essence of a Patrick Cowley Mega-mix that was a sound that exploded in the early 80s. A nice dream-like edge is one that gives the classic a new stage, I have taken the album version of “Nowhere To Run” and worked the synthesizer and keyboards again as if it were 3 AM on a dance floor that is sliding into an afterhour’s mode. There are more of the keyboards that created that feeling of another dimension taking over the senses and a lengthy exit to bring it to a close. |
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Do Me Right - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dynasty Dynasty is a funk-disco band created by Leon Sylvers of The Sylvers (“Boogie Fever”) and Dick Griffey. This ensemble including Kevin Spencer, Leon Sylvers, Linda Carriere, Nidra Beard, Wardell Potts and William Shelby helped to keep the disco vibe alive in the early 80’s. Their big disco hit from 1979 titled “I Don't Want To Be A Freak (But I Can't Help Myself)” help to move this group into a trust with dance floors and those thriving for 80’s funk. “Do Me Right” is from their second project titled “Adventures In The Land Of Music” and is one of the pieces I would save for that inner crowd during peak hour at my club. One of the tracks that make Dynasty feels like a breath of fresh grooves and excitement. I have taken the 12” version of “Do Me Right” and created a ReStructure Mix to pound more of this funk into a new groove. A new intro brings the promise of love with determination to the head and some new percussion. |
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Summer Dream - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sergio Mendes Brazill '88 Sergio Mendes is a Brazilian artist and composer who created a unique style of Bossa Nova and Latin Rhythms and moving onto the 70s fused a touch of funk and eventually disco. His 1979 album “Magic Lady” along with Brazil ’88 featured several dance numbers that invaded club dance floors thanks to the execution of tracks like “I’ll Tell You” and “Summer Dream”. The Latin influence has the funk edge of each dance number alive with percussion and energy. “Summer Dream” is a flowing disco track that brings to mind a tropical island full of pleasure – as the song plays on you can almost feel the breeze. It is a favorite for anyone who loves Mendes and knows the effect that disco music creates when used the right way. I have taken the short 3:36 album version of “Summer Dream” and recreated an escape for the ears, feet and mind in this ReStructure Mix. The rolling bass line is the subject of encouragement here as it becomes a few breakdowns. The beautiful lyrics and vocals are the wonder and those saxophone breaks are magnificent. |
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Do Me A Favor - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amy Bolton Amy Bolton is one of the artists in 1980 that helped excitement and promise to a new era of dance music. “Do Me A Favor” is her first single release produced by Jimmy Bralower and Jimmy Ryan. This funky rock-edged piece was heavily promoted by many involved in the DJ subscription service Disconet and released on their label Importe/12. The track has a nice vocal hook and gives Amy an opportunity to let her vein and most likely flirtatious love interest to take it down a notch. This early shift in dance music introduced the alternative dance floors to where disco left off. The direction was an exciting twist for DJs and dancers. I have taken the 12” version of “Do Me A Favor” and moved the alternative track into a ReStructure Mix with more emphasis on the synth-edge of the production. This was indeed one of the early possible Razormaid or Ultamix as an 80’s dance contenders setting a new layout for dance floors. |
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Square Biz - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Teena Marie Teena Marie (alias ‘Vanilla Child’) is one of the Motown artists whom helped to create a new landscape for funk, soul and pop music. “Square Biz” is a single from Teena’s 1981 self-produced project titled “It Must Be Magic”. This magnificent piece of funk and groove is a display of the power of this artist’s ability to capture the essence with her talent and dedication to her genre. Not only has Teena been able to move a soulful ballad along with Mr. Rick James, but also create an original groove which plays out on its own. This single was a shift in the early 80s towards a new dance/funk direction and even today as old school continues to bring back the “magic” that only Teena could bring. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Square Biz” and worked the funky groove into a more underground downbeat edge in portions. The original groove is kept intact and move breakdowns are a new element for this old school classic. “Everybody get up!”
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Do It At The Disco - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gary's Gang Gary’s Gang is Gary Turnier, Eric Matthew (later producing Sharon Redd and Fast Radio), Jay Leon, Bob Forman, Rino Minetti, Al Lauricella and Bill Catalano. Their huge disco hit “Keep on Dancing” from 1978 made the band a permanent sound on dance floors everywhere. “Do It At The Disco” is another dynamite single from the group and features a Latin-Salsa feel with their strong percussion layout and “party” attitude. It was one of the fast moving energy tracks which helped to bring disco music to life not only in the fast growing club circuit but also radio stations that began to experiment with the successful disco format. A great piece to remember the band for and also one of the classics which give the period it deserved memory. I have taken the album version of “Do It At The Disco” a new overhaul for this ReStructure Mix and have utilized the Salsa elements more to the extreme. The Latin percussion is extended to bring more power to the message which holds out till the fade. |
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Piano Dancing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - George Fischoff George Fischoff is a composer who moved into the disco movement in 1977 with the single “Piano Dancing” – a new move from Columbia Records when disco was becoming the underground and experimental trend on major labels. Most of Columbia’s artists of the time were funk, jazz and bands attempting to break out with a club dance single. “Piano Dancing” takes the formula made pop by taking a disco edge and symphonic or orchestral elements into the groove. This one plays out with a few sections which may be the most sweeping of this style. It has a light chorus of disco ensemble repeating the riff over and over as the disco sound laid out early on in soul music. A nice retro piece and return to the beginning of disco music and its pop roots. I have taken the 12” version of “Piano Dancing” and created more of that orchestral meets funk groove in this ReStructure Mix. More of the percussion is outlined as the emphasis for the hips and the breakdowns are placed in several more places. |
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Do You Like The Way That It Feels - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tempest Trio Tempest Trio is Mike Theodore and Dennis Coffey – two of dance music most prized talents. Both Theodore and Coffey were ahead of the funk long before it hit the dance floors of the late 70’s. Mike Theodore had made his “Cosmic Wind” production an event for the dance floor and along with Coffey had made projects from C.C. and Company, King Errisson and The Mike Theodore Orchestra top of the disco chain. “Do You Like The Way That It Feels” comes from their project for Marlin Records from 1979 – Tempest Trio. The funk-disco track plays out like Bootsy Collins hit the disco scene with more funk and relish. A great piece of late 70’s disco music with the flair that only Theodore and Coffey were able to assemble. I have taken the album version of “Do You Like The Way That It Feels” and reedited a ReStructure Mix to pay tribute to this magic pair of musicians in Tempest Trio. It uses more of the riffs that jump in and out of a rhythmic vibration and proves once again that disco and funk were meant to collide. |
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Lay Love On You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Luisa Fernandez Luisa Fernandez is a disco artist from Spain and released her first album, “Disco Darling” in 1978. The project was produced by David Parker and featured a hardcore disco selection of dance tracks at the height of the disco era. “Lay Love On You” is the number that is most memorable from this collection and echoes with heavy percussion and Luisa’s dreamy vocal. This one rings out with the power of a disco anthem with its hooks upfront and the vocal echoing like a fantasy. It was more of an underground hit for those deejays who dug deep into the bins and worked the breaks as if they were dessert. I have taken the album version of “Lay Love On You” and created a ReStructure Mix which plays out to the bongo riffs and more of peak hour remix. Luisa still remains as breathy and disco immersed with more breaks and drop outs. |
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Hooked On Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Aleem Aleem are Taharqa Aleem and Tunde Ra Aleem and along with producer Leroy Burgess in the late 70’s helped to shape the destination of dance music. “Hooked On Your Love” is a garage classic that plays out as the story was told. A soulful vocal rendition on a stripped disco production where less was better. The independent label release began a new surge of funk/disco projects following the disco backlash of the late seventies breathing a continuance into the 80’s of new sounds and creativity with a funk/soul edge. Backing vocals are provided by Luther Vandross and Ullanda McCullough. A nice ringing song which brings to mind the Paradise Garage and the Larry Levan sound which began a new section in dance music history. I have taken the original 12” version of “Hooked On Your Love” and worked out the percussion and drums to create a new ReStructure Mix. More of the vocal is used to pull a dub-play on this new extension of this fantastic release. As the song exclaims, “sing it loud!” |
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Only Star - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Aretha Franklin Aretha Franklin released her album “La Diva” in 1979 which featured the self-written track “Only Star” produced by Van McCoy. This album was a disco promise which many artists and producers made a move on when disco music was at its peak. “Only Star” spells out what made disco an extreme period of time. Being the star on the dance floor became the escape for many who found pleasure and excitement under the flashing lights – it was a Broadway play with “you” as the star. This track feels like the pop-edge of disco music and features Sharon Brown, Zulema Cusseaux and Van McCoy on backing vocals. A nice little diversion from the Queen of Soul and a nice way to hear that powerful and moving voice in a disco arrangement. I have taken the album version of “Only Star” and transformed Aretha’s composition into a ReStructure Mix with a touch of electronic help. A heavy new percussion track and some synth effects bring the rhythm down to a dub-like feel. The Queen Lives On! |
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Power Hungry - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Radiah Frye Radiah Frye is a vocalist from France who was also a member of the disco group New Paradise. Her recording career started in 1975 and spanned throughout 1980 when she recorded with disco producer Gino Soccio with the single “Power Hungry” – co-produced by Marco Juniore. There is Soccio’s magic all over this electronic and pulsating track. The title gives a great description although Radiah sings about an arrogant lover who gives insecurity as well as unfulfilling love. Released in 1980 this was one of the last pumping disco tracks of the time which helped to revive the energy of the late 70’s disco feel. I have taken the 12” of “Power Hungry” and re-energized the pumping synths and pop-rock edge into a new ReStructure Mix. The looping and rearranged pieces give way to an alternate version for Soccio fans and also those who can’t get enough of the early synth-pop sound of the 80s. |
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Supernatural Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer Donna Summer made the 70’s an exciting place. Her career spanned through this era when music was shaped by a generation. Her place among disco music is well known yet her continuance in pop music throughout the 80’s is another incredible feat. Many of her 80’s productions were meant to somehow shake off the disco edge yet Donna’s voice always brought tracks in a dance genre back to the magic she was known for. “Supernatural Love” comes from her 1984 album “Cats Without Claws” produced by Michael Omartian. One of the powerhouse dance numbers from Donna with that heavy emphasis on dance floors and a dramatic flair. The song brings us into a realm of a love that is never ending and over powering. A great synth-pop production and one of Donna’s lovely deliveries which is memorable. I have taken the 12” version of “Supernatural Love” and worked a dub-like play in this ReStructure Mix. I brought in two of Donna’s greatest disco hits to accent the drama and also remind us of how the magic of her voice and style are still alive. |
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Torture - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jacksons The Jacksons released their 1984 project titled “Victory” at the peak of Michael and Jermaine Jackson’s careers and also a time when 80’s music was in top form. Many albums and singles have proven the Jackson’s not only talented but also a move in the music scene which set precedence for a sound for dance floors and radio. “Torture” is a track produced by Jackie Jackson and plays out the drama of a relationship gone awry and it remnants creating a painful memory. This one not only worked with a place with the 80’s video movement of the time but also in the tradition of pop-rock and synth-dance. It features some of Michael’s memorable and best vocal riffs and also a mystical edge which drew me into it immediately. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Torture” and recreated a new and darker ReStructure Mix which keeps the flow of the underground feel. I have added a few new percussion elements to lift segments of the new arrangement and also utilized pieces of the original to give this extended play a stage for more drama. |
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Jungle Fever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Chakachas Chakachas is a Latin soul ensemble lead by Gaston Bogaert and Tito Madinez. Their 1970 track “Jungle Fever” is one of the well-known Afro-funk pieces which have lead into an underground disco and a fusion of tribal-like rhythm arena. It is quite sensual and erotic as the female moans and breaths keep moving with the pace of the haunting bongo riffs. It is an early take off with a lounge-esque feel of experimental dance music. I have taken the album version of “Jungle Fever” and have taken the track into a ReStructure Mix with new focus on the underground feel. Adding a new beat piece from Opium Monks and a classic by Instant Funk this new journey is more of a dub outline for the Chakachas classic. |
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Expressway To Your Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix –Karen Young Karen Young is one of the disco artists of the late 70s which shaped the final stage of disco evolution with her big 1978 dance floor classic “Hot Shot”. The impact of this formulation of soul, funk and the style which emerged from an underground dance movement and its participants. “Expressway To You Heart” is a single from 1982 produced by Walter Kahn – who also brought us disco projects Mizz and Cindy and Roy. This cover of the Soul Survivors 1967 psychedelic/funk number is a juicy 80s electronic dance number which gives Karen another chance to give her voice a run-down with disco. One of the early 80s domestic releases which I admired and played out during its release. I have taken the 12” single which features a medley including another segment titled “No U Turn”. I separated the medley and focused on “Expressway To Your Heart” and extended and rejoined the pieces of this nice production. It is given some drum loops to enhance the groove and also some pieces of the original to remind us how ingenious this composition by Philly’s Gamble and Huff really is. |
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Let’s Go Dancing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rocky Mizell INFO COMING LATER |
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Only Music Survives - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Alba Alba is an Italo-disco singer with her first single “Only Music Survives” from 1985 being one of the iconic moments of disco, fantasy and art are beautifully combined. The production and arrangement from Roberto Gasparini and Pino Nicolosi are my motivation to salute this arena of Italo-disco and hardcore club anthems. This mystical track brings the feel of early morning melodic beats and a lovely performance by our chanteuse is haunting. The music is credited to Dora Carofiglio (Suzanne Meals, Valerie Dore, Novecento) who has always given a wonderful and touching sound to any affiliated project. “Only Music Survives” is a must for any Italo-disco connoisseur and or students of this magnificent period in dance music history. I have taken the 12” of “Only Music Survives” using both mixes to recreate a rolling and sweeping ReStructure Mix to pay tribute to the wonderful players and Alba Parietti in continuing the torch and creating this lovely style of dance music. A bit more effects are added along with some looping which emphasizes the feeling on a deeper level. |
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Hot Lava - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Disco Tex and The Sex-O-Lettes Disco Tex and The Sex-o-Lettes are best known for their funky 1975 release, “Get Dancin’” with its rousing and at times outrageous flamboyant directness. It was one of the first spoofs of “boogie” music to my knowledge when the term disco was shortly waiting in the wings. Produced by Bob Crewe and fantastic arrangements by Kenny Nolan and Denny Randell. This began a whole side to funky/boogie music for an introduction to the club scene on AM radio and also for those steppin’ out without experience. “Hot Lava” is from their second album from 1976 titled “Manhattan Millionaire” which follows in the familiar style of funk excess with a flute solo gettin’ to the groove. This number plays out as each beat and clap is accentuated appropriately and flawlessly. This is one of the early tracks that many were movin' fiercely to at a Mancuso Party. Hot! I have taken the 3:49 album version and extended and added a few elements to play this “Hot Lava” flowing to another ReStructure Mix. It is played out as the original with a few new breaks and pieces that stand plain funky to be repeated. |
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Miss You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Rolling Stones The Rolling Stones are rock history in their own right. The English rock group was formed in 1962 and has yet to cease performing and bringing the meaning behind the term “rock and roll”. Throughout their recording career music has always spoken for the members and their talent. In 1976 when disco music was emerging into the scene it was their hit “Miss You” which outlined the downbeat for dance floors in a rock essence. Never giving up their sound yet building it on a new foundation. The single was one of the biggest surprises for many fans as the realization that a crossover hit was barely even noticed as sound The Rolling Stones could adapt to. It was a moment of pleasure for dancers and also for many rock groups who followed a dip into the disco realm of the time. I have taken the 12” single of “Miss You” and added percussion and looped feel to create a ReStructure Mix to pay homage to this iconic band. It flairs out in an after-hours peak which is what I felt the original long disco play was giving to the period. Another moment in shaping disco music and rock history. |
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Feel The Need - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Forrest Forrest is vocalist Forrest M. Thomas Jr. and Dutch disco producer John Tilly (who also gave us Risqué’ and Telekin). His single “Feel The Need” from 1983 is a cover of the Detroit Emeralds 1972 soul number which was re-released again in 1977 with a dynamite disco production by Abrim Tilmon. The song was then covered by rock-pop singer Leif Garrett in 1978. The song has a resonance of pure desire and drive as it has lasted to the 80s and even today has that rhyme and reason of love. Forrest performs this version over a simple electronic keyboard and percussion track which takes the early 80s transition into heart. It does have the heart although and plays out with the same effect – which a great song always does. I have taken the 12” version of “Feel The Need” and recreated a ReStructure Mix working back and forth with the vocals, percussion and keyboard riffs. A lengthier pull for the song and another opportunity to make this gem last. |
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Eva’s Theme – Lady Woman - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Festival Festival is a disco ensemble produced by Boris Midney who was an innovative producer in the late 70’s whose creative movement was to blend electronic segments, classic Philly disco pieces and a symphonic orchestral sound into a disco beat. There was always an imaginative state in his arrangements where a flush of strings could suddenly brake and a conga break would take its place. His style evolved throughout his work in the late 70’s and in many projects and made him one of the landmark producers and sounds in disco music. His disco production of the Broadway musical “Evita” was a big hit on dance floors and made his interpretation an indelible one. “Eva’s Theme: Lady Woman” is the finale in his movement and is an additional piece he added and wrote himself to give the disco opera some new flair. It has some of the great haunting power of the play itself. I have taken the album version of “Eva’s Theme: Lady Woman” and used a few new points of my own interpretation of Midney’s masterpiece in this ReStructure Mix. There is a funk-beat effect added to a new intro with some samples from the Broadway album to give a new mystique to the track. |
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The Garden - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – ‘Lectric Workers ‘Lectric Workers is a 1982 Italo-disco project from Franco Rago, Gigi Farina and X. Monneret – a band of producers who gave us the monolith Italian dance track “Robot Is Systematic”. This phase in Italo-disco was a transformation of the disco production to an electronic format with a new edge of energy and sound. “The Garden” is an early high energy piece that points to later songs like “Light A Light” by Peppermint. “Feel good” energy with an uplifting and simple chorus line which gives the groove more of a memorable experience. ‘Lectric Workers created “The Break” in 1982 with their electronic percussion number “Robot Is Systematic” and in “The Garden” takes innovation in the 80’s high energy dance scene to come. A nice bubbly number that plays out like a sweaty night of dancing non-stop to music which is what disco was intended to be. I have taken the 12” vocal and dub of “The Garden” and realigned the energy for this new ReStructure Mix. The synthesizer B-side dub is played out here with a continuous looping of its intent to make us feel good. |
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New Beginning - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Buck’s Fizz Buck’s Fizz is an English pop group with Bobby G, Cheryl Baker, David Van Day, Jay Aston, Lianna Lee, Mike Nolan, Sally Jacks, Shelley Preston. Their 1986 anthem “New Beginning” is produced by Andy Hill and was a great uplifting chorus-driven dance number. A positive look at the world’s future in taking care in the youth for a great cause. It was one of the songs which worked for me during peak hours since it broke out of the norm for the time and also brought a spark of enlightenment to a program. One of my personal favorite for the high energy period of the time. I have taken the US 12” – extended version and dub remixed by Ian Levine and created a new ReStructure Mix to keep this wonderful anthem alive. It gives more attention to the synthesizer and percussion and also leads in with a tribal fest. |
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I Want That Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Deborah Harry Deborah Harry is an American-pop icon. From heading one of the 70’s top punk bands, then taking on disco and a short movie career this woman has made an alternative stake at the most original. With the band Blondie she took over the pop-dance world with tracks like “Rapture”, “Heart Of Glass” and with disco producer Giorgio Moroder hits like “Call Me”. Her continuing recording career in 1989 featured a hit dance single titled “I Want That Man” produced by Ben Grosse and Eric Throngren – written by Alannah Currie and Tom Bailey of Thompson Twins. The single is another dreamy vocal from Deborah in her own style desiring all of the greatest in life including a love with that special guy. It is one of her most powerful dance tracks and brings to mind once again the awesome span of her career in her own light. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “I Want That Man” and reedited and reworked a new ReStructure Mix. There are a few samples of Deborah’s hits with Blondie accenting the foreground and a new arrangement. A favorite or mine since the beginning and now a classic Deborah Harry moment. |
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Happiness - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Christopher Street Christopher Street is a disco/high energy project from vocalist Albane Alcalay and producers Brian Springstill, Charlie Cohen and Michel Jullien. “Happiness” is from 1984 and follows closely the high energy vein of its UK label, ERC Records. This rare but effectively beautiful number relays a nice message with the high energy fanfare made popular in the early and mid-80’s. This one was an after-hours gem for me as it woke up a dance or stand-up crowd for a morning of leftover emotions and energy. I have always loved the majestic feel and odd vocal in this one. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to recreate a new focus on this anthem in this ReStructure Mix. More of the rolling synths are extended and displayed again for an edit and reformation of the vocals by Albane. An anthem always delivers like this one. |
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Rock With You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Michael Jackson Michael Jackson is a world performer who has taken many opportunities throughout his career to give more than music. He has created gifts for the soul. Much like his talent focused on a deeper look into the world and the good existing within. His love songs always delivered a soulful and exquisite beauty thanks to a vocal style which yearns for understanding. “Rock With You” is from Michael’s 1979 album “Off The Wall” and is one of the great numbers in his repertoire. This sweet and funky piece was written by Rod Temperton and marks a great time for Michael’s solo career. I have taken the album version of “Rock With You” and the rare instrumental and string versions to rework another groove for this ReStructure Mix. More dub movements are placed to give an underground feel with more mystic. I have reworked the arrangement to bring a new start to this classic piece. |
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Good, Good Tequila - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Diva Gray and Oyster Diva Gray is one of the finest voices in disco, soul and funk music. You may recall the early peak of disco music with session bands like Bionic Boogie, Change, Lemon where Ms. Gray gave these projects a lift with her vocal talent and range. Oyster is a session group produced by Luigi Ojival who also produced C.K.B. and 1er Discopera. The project where he features Diva as the lead in a fantasy-like chorus of uplifting disco tracks is “Hotel Paradise” from 1979. Several cuts from the album were successful in clubs and one of the winding energetic pieces titled “Good, Good Tequila” is one of my favorites thanks to Ms. Gray’s tantalizing performance. This one has the feel of a high energy anthem which unleashes a pulsating sound and ravishing lead vocal. This track is one of the peak disco numbers that reminds me of the best of disco when disco was on top on the world. I have taken the album version of “Good, Good Tequila” and reworked the elements which have made it memorable for me in this ReStructure Mix. It gives way to a longer intro where the keyboards are laid out for a new excitement and more of Diva Gray and that “yummy juice”! |
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The Real Thing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Daddy Dewdrop Daddy Dewdrop (Richard Monda) is an artist whose career spanned throughout the late 80s and eventually placed him into the disco genre on T.K. Records with his single “The Real Thing” – a flip side of his single “Nanu, Nanu (I Wanna Funky Wich You)”. The 12” single is one of the T.K. 12” singles which came at the peak of the disco era when everything was coming up disco. “The Real Thing” was remixed by Randy Sills and was given a feel similar to Donna Summer’s “I Feel Love” – where a percolating and hypnotic bathe of synthesizers roll over like a whirlpool – as Daddy Dewdrop performs a love song which always reminded me of “Venus” by Frankie Avalon. The effect was quite a nice one and had me playing this one during after parties and after hour sets for years. I have taken the 12” version of “The Real Thing” (the original version) and created a new ReStructure Mix to give this one another spotlight. It works on the sequencers a bit more and extends them to create a whole new “thing”. |
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Send Me An Angel - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Real Life Real Life is Allan Johnson, Danny Simcic, David Sterry, George Pappas, Richard Zatorski and Steve Williams – an Australian 80’s synth-pop group. Their big 1983 hit “Send Me An Angel” is one of the icons of the dance scene of the period. The heavy synthesizers working alongside the bands play is a sound which reminded me of Eurhythmics style. All in all in this single it plays out on its own. The track was one which rings out as a haunting request for a change of life and heart for this hero. A big dance floor hit and a nice intro to Real Life who continued recording on to 2004. I have taken the 1988 12” remix of “Send Me An Angel” and recreated a new play for this magnificent dance piece. It is a bit more rolling with the synthesizers playing a major part and some of the “Cloud Nine Mix” – which is the house dub – plays into this new ReStructure Mix. A nice homage to the 80s dance scene and the band. |
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Hangin’ - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Chic Chic is one of disco music’s connections between funk/soul and the distinctive sound of the 70s. A groove which made the disco era what it is and was. The masters of this machine were Nile Rogers and Bernard Edwards who played out the music which took dance floors and audio connoisseurs into a new realm. “Hangin’” is a single from their 1982 album “Tongue In Cheek” which moves the band from the sound they created in the mid 70’s which outlined a funkier and sophisticated disco edge to a new period of funk and electro-dance during the early 80’s. With this track you can hear that the band had no problem with the shift. All of the ammunition that was inspired during their inception is brought to the hilt in this finger-poppin’ dance number. It is the nightlife again in a new manner where Chic again pulls it off with sophistication for a new era of dance music. I have taken the album version of “Hangin’” and recreated a ReStructure Mix with a new energy injected. Some pumping drums add some excitement to this new trip. The guitars which paint the picture are extended and looped for control again and the chorus used to emphasize the meaning. |
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Oh Que Calor - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Primero Primeo is an electronic dance project from Dutch producers Erik Van Vliet and Michiel Van Der Kuy. Van Vliet had started his new dance label Hotsound Records in Rotterdam in 1981 and featured a synth-dance format where keyboards and electronics were the foundation of many productions. It was another shift from disco to electronica during the 80s. “Oh Que Calor” is the debut release for their project titled Primero which outlines a Latin style flair along with the heavy percussion tracks and light and airy arrangements. The track is one which became a hit immediately in my club where peak hours would become a celebration. It has the mild delivery that hits hard when its chorus strikes and builds from thereon. A nice addition to their catalogue which is a must for those who admire a little adventure in their dance music. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental versions of “Oh Que Calor” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix focusing more on the intense percussion track. I have laid out a new intro which spotlights a hardcore morning of hip shaking to the percussion and bass synth elements. This new arrangement adds more effects to give way to the excitement of the number that is now evident. |
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Magic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gino Soccio Gino Soccio is one of the pioneers and innovators of electronic disco music. His work with session bands Kebekelektrik, Bombers, Gotham Flasher and Witch Queen and also solo artists Radiah Frye and Karen Silver have made his work some of the most respected dance music in its history so far. The single “Magic” was released in 1986 and is formulated in Soccio’s style in forming a dance track out of segments of tech-grooves and light ambient effects. The effect is always a mystical experience in dance music. “Magic” is centered in the techno genre with Soccio’s rolling bass synths providing the disco groove. Vocals are much like a shout out of short verses which give way to the imagination – where in this track it is a love affair in its peak identity. A less noticed piece for the time yet for those who know dance music and Soccio’s music, it is a gem. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Magic” and have rearranged the original layout in a new ReStructure Mix. The climbing intro is a path to the wonderful sparkling of Soccio’s elegant dance music and by extending it as an intro I have worked to provide a higher dive into this wonderful piece of dance music. |
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Watch Out! - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Doctor’s Cat Doctor’s Cat is an Italo-disco project lead by producers Aldo Martinelli and Fabrizio Gatto and features Simona Zanini on vocals. The early 80’s and during the innovative and formative years of Italian disco music projects like Doctor’s Cat help to bring a fresh edge to dance music. Utilizing the electronic production to create a full orchestrated sound and like this more of a stamp of airy keyboards and jittery sequencers. “Watch Out!” is the second single from Doctor’s Cat from 1983 and is one of those numbers which pull your mind into the phasing and rolling electronics. Vocals are a bit haunting and can be classified as an alternative chorus of childlike and at time ominous. The effect together, both music and vocals are as effective as Italo-disco can get. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Watch Out!” to work the maze of this production into a new ReStructure Mix. This new outline places some hardcore street beats under the wobbly sequencer pieces and breaks the original flow into parts. This one caught my ear immediately and for the time many of the dancers in my clubs |
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I Want You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rofo Rofo is an electronic dance project from producer Fonny De Wulf whose work in the early 80s brought on a whole new message and sound to dance music. In 1982 their work began utilizing their talents on electronic savvy with singles for clubs. “I Want You” is a single from 1984 which blends a dream-like essence for this love stomper. The team of Ronny Verrept and Fonny De Wulf are played out with the power of what Rofo is all encompasses. One of the big tracks for me to bring high energy to dance floors and environments in the 80s in a manner I admired. I have taken the 12” of “I Want You” and using both the vocal and instrumental reform a ReStructure Mix in this formula. It retains the outline of the keyboards play on the dreamlike state and adds a few pieces of drum patterns to pound out more of its energy. |
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Stop On By - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rufus featuring Chaka Khan Rufus and Chaka Khan are the Chicago funk/soul group which made funk music a natural experience. Even though Chaka’s career became the forefront at certain periods of their performing and recording years their combination always rang out with the best they could offer. Their 1974 album “Rufusized” as their first offered the track “Stop On By” (co-written by Bobby Womack) produced by Bob Monaco. This early display of the bands ability to take a song and play it into a funk rendition which displayed a unique and satisfying groove. Chaka is at her most effective in tracks as this where her voice fills in the emotion that feeds the sound of soul becoming funk. A great number and an early sign of where Chaka and Rufus were headed in the 70s. I have taken the album version of “Stop On By” and re-introduced the song with this ReStructure Mix which takes more advantage of the jazz feel of the base and uses the funk to accentuate it. More percussion floats along to build more of a groove and the pieces of both the band and Ms. Khan left where they made history. |
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You Turned My Bitter Into Sweet - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Linda Lewis Linda Lewis is a vocalist from West Ham, London and began a recording career in 1967 with a string of ballads and pop hits to follow. Her first single “You Turned My Bitter Into Sweet” is transformed in 1984 into a high energy love song by producer Kevin Anthony Roberts. A nice transformation from the bebop/Motown-esque feels of the original into a pulsating and still “sweet” number. Linda also does a nice job working the song all over again for a new audience and a stomping dance floor. I have taken the 12” single Megamix created by Ian Levine and worked the Lewis classic into a new ReStructure Mix. The essence of this love anthem is accentuated into a new format with more of the climbing from verse to choruses of testifying true love. It gives a tribute to the original with a few sampled pieces. |
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Give Me Your Body While We're Dancin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Jesse Towers Jesse Towers is a disco artist who released “Give Me Your Body While We’re Dancin’” in 1979. Originally pressed and released in Canada on Attic Records the single caught on in clubs during the peak of disco and its production pointed towards the energy of disco music and the excitement it had stirred. This single was a powerhouse hit with clubs who were building the energy to that peak featuring songs like “Love Attack” by Ferrara and “The Break” by Kat Mandu – this one rolled along the same energy. The vocals as Mr. Towers presents have a sweet delivery which rings out with the accompanying disco chants. A true disco track with the echoes of a dance floor with the disco roller skating feel. I have taken the 12” extended and radio version of “Give Me Your Body While We’re Dancin’” to rework the hand clap riffs and fabulous mod-keyboards into a new ReStructure Mix. This play not only extends the pulsating disco energy but also gives it a strip down at the fade. |
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Woman - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Snob Snob is a disco project from Philip Walter, Patrick Barbero and Philippe Renaux – formerly titled Black Sun. Their 1979 project titled “Are Women Snobs?” is one of the disco variations on the Italo-disco craze taking over in the late 70s and early 80s. “Women” is a single from the album which is known by hardcore disco connoisseurs as a slice of that disco pie. The number uses heavy synthesizers and guitar riffs in the pure disco sound and weaves a hypnotic foundation for the light and elf-like chorus singing of those ladies in the club that drive onlookers to question just where they come from. The theme alone follows the Italo-disco exploration of alternative and unique compositions. The drum tracks are the main force here and they never leave short a space where a break can benefit. I have taken the 12” version of “Women” on the Canadian disco label P.B.I. Records and took those grooves which formulate that hardcore disco edge in a ReStructure Mix. More of the winding pieces which make this song an underground sensation. It also signifies the movement of disco music which even today continues to influence artists and dancers everywhere. |
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Special Delivery - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Angela Bofill Angie Bofill is a soul, jazz and rhythm and blues vocalist whose work it best known for her work in the late 70s and pop-dance tracks in the early 80s. Even though most of her memorable tracks are ballads I became focused on Angela’s music thanks to the sweetness of her voice and unique phrasing. “Special Delivery” is from her 1983 album “Teaser” and is produced by Narada Michael Walden who also gave a great effort in many dance productions of the time including Aretha Franklin, Sister Sledge, Stacy Lattisaw, Amii Stewart and Phyllis Hyman. This number is a nice pop-soul mover that incorporates a definitive announcement to a love who is unsuspecting. A nice dance track for Angela and again her voice powers this song into gear with her power yet subtle tease. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Special Delivery” and re-delivered this ReStructure Mix with new play with the existing beats. It works like a surprise in many ways with a few breakdowns and more of the bridge which echoes a 60s flair. |
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Cuba Libre! - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Modern Rocketry Modern Rocketry is a high energy project from San Francisco’s disco resurgence during the early 80s. The studio ensemble began in 1983 with their singles “I’m Not Your Steppin’ Stone” and “The Right Stuff” – both produced by Ken Kessie and Morey Goldstein. The sound of dance music began a new shift in dance music in the early 80s was immensely driven by electronics which brought the energy level higher. Tracks like “Cuba Libre!” are the essence of the 80s high energy scene where the rolling sequencers delivered the power and energy that dancers were looking for. I have taken the 12” version of “Cuba Libre!” from the Megatone Record label – remixed by Marty Blecman and have given it a new ReStructure Mix lift. More of the celebration is extended by the chorus being ignited in many new ways along with some extending of those climactic keyboards and play on edits. A classic disco number is added by The Gibson Brothers to add to the excitement. |
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Yoda’s Theme - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Boris Midney Boris Midney is one of the earliest innovators of disco/dance music in the late 70s. His approach with disco music in his first two projects USA European Connection and Beautiful Bend were a blend of female chorus in Philly style along with a futuristic and electronic orchestra. His style was one which perplexed many whose ideas and rhythm were following the standard. It was not long before this underground disco style became a classic among itself and influenced many producers and artists in the upcoming disco arena. “Yoda’s Theme” is from Boris Midney’s 1980 album which featured “Music From The Empire Strikes Back” scored by John Williams. Midney had already progressed into a new rhythmic and jazz fused edge which was heard in his projects Festival, Masquerade and Caress. With “Yoda’s Theme” Midney does not hold back from using what imagination brought along with score. I have taken the album version of “Yoda’s Theme” and gave it a new ReStructure Mix and took pieces of the composition from Boris Midney to play out in a new and soaring version. More of the swirling pieces of Midney’s majestic orchestral snippets are intact and at times are created in a new way. |
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7th Heaven - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Vanity Vanity is Denise Mathews and is best known for her performances with group Vanity 6 and her music affiliation with artist, Prince. Her solo career following the Prince Triage ensemble began in 1984 where her singles featured her luscious vocals pawing at funk rhythms like a cat teasing its prey. “7th Heaven” is a 1985 single which was produced by Bill Wolfer and was featured on the Motown soundtrack to the film “The Last Dragon”. The track is very similar to her single “Pretty Mess” yet the rhythm funk grooves make it unique and stand on its own. The sexy vocal again lures us into Vanity’s style and play land where the height of the song never ends. I have taken the soundtrack version of 3:28 into a ReStructure Mix as a portion fixer to extend and work with more beats and street drums to enhance this number. “7th Heaven” has the alluring quality which makes Vanity’s style stand out and obvious and this extension works on completing it in a new suggestive way. This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ray Duran Jr. for his request to bring this piece onto the floor again with more ‘heaven’ for our ears and feet. |
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My Love Is Hot (Caliente) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lalomie Washburn Lalomie Washburn is a soul and funk singer from the early 70s also from featured in bands High Voltage and Love Craft. Her solo recording began in 1977 with her album “My Music Is Hot” on disco music’s Parachute Records. The project was produced by Sye Mitchell and took Lalomie into a disco funk arena with a perfect landing for her soulful and sexy delivery. “My Love Is Hot (Caliente)” is the single which I caught onto with its Latin percussion outline and standard lounge male chorus adlibs. It is one of the great funk fares of the mid-70s and also features The Waters on backup vocals. A driving number that is one of the remnants of a great era of funk to disco. I have taken the album version of “My Love Is Hot (Caliente)” and rearranged the hot track with a new ReStructure Mix for a deeper layout. It features a riff from an earlier recording produced by Sye Mitchell titled “Everybody Must Pay” by Swede. This new rework is a treatment of the loops and additions to give Lalomie another chance to lure us into the “hot” music these two have left us with. |
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Give Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Range Range is an Italo-disco project from Paul Mazzolini – a producer also known as Gazebo, Paul Micioni who produced projects by Easy Going, Gary Low, Amii Stewart and Twilight and Natasha King who is also the vocalist on the track “AM/FM” under Natasha. “Give Me” is the only 12” single released by this ensemble in 1981 yet the single lays out Italo-disco in its most creative and influential time period. The magic keyboards from Mazzolini are a galactic swirl that sounds as if they could have existed in an early work from Boris Midney. The song has a sweet taste of the Italian disco chorus which extends a delivery that is harmony at a falsetto range in a whisper. One of the memorable moments in disco history where the artists play the majestic elements of dance music with flair and a funky bass under tone. I have taken the 12” of “Give Me” and created a ReStructure Mix to pay tribute to both Mazzolini and Micioni and their wonderful contributions to dance music. This slick piece is one where you can hear the talent and creative sense play. It has always been a favorite of mine from the echoes of that keyboard riff in a dance hall. This reworking is a touch of tribal drums meet outer space. |
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Am I Normal - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eye To Eye I have taken the 12” version of “Am I Normal” and gave it an homage not only to the track itself but also the 80s transition of disco music to a new dance style in many variations. This song always gave me the escape that the dance floor offered with its piecing keyboards and sequencers following the mood. It is presented in this ReStructure Mix as another example of great imagination of talent from Eye To Eye. |
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Don’t Turn Your Love Away - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Viva Viva is a high energy disco project from producer by Kevin Mason and arranged and conducted by Mike Durandt. The aerobics pump in this one makes it light and sweet as the male vocal croons in a sexy 60s flair. One of the releases of the time that stands out with its original airy feel. High energy began speaking its true voice with tracks as this and made the mid-80s once again a rejuvenation period for disco music. I have taken the 12” versions to weave this new ReStructure Mix and adding more of a shallow percussion assist to work along this pumping energy. More detours are taken into new breaks and a new way of listening and dancing to this little gem. |
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When You Walk In The Room - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ramming Speed I have taken the 12” and utilized the three versions to recreate a ReStructure Mix with hints of the original from the 1964 original. The drums and percussion are pieces of the original only being brought to the front like a cannonball. More of the Morrison and Guenther work which continued to leave me in awe of their magic in the 80s and just as successful on the dance floors. |
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Some Kind Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Billy Always Billy Always (William Lewis Moore) is a soul vocalist whose talent led him under the direction of Aretha Franklin in the 50s at the age of nine. His solo recording career includes the 1980 single “Some Kind of Love” which was released under Canada’s dance label V.S. Records. A funk arrangement a mild energy yet quite contagious thanks to the magic of Billy’s vocals. The blaring horns create a nice layer of serious throwing down in this one. I have taken the 12” of “Some Kind of Love” and recreated a looser and funk driven groove with some pieces of the bongo riffs and horn parts. The existing groove makes this ReStructure Mix only a rekindling of arrangement in parts and pieces. |
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From Here To Eternity - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Colby Colby is an Italo-disco project from producer Servero Lombardoni along with Marcello Catalano arranging this classic Giorgio Moroder instrumentation. Released in 1987 this single placed the space disco epic into a new time zone with a hard hitting beat and use of the elements from original pieced into a new journey into the sound of electronic disco during its creation. This one pours more of the mystic with heart and soul which Moroder may have given this project during his brainstorms – it is the classic Italo-disco emulating the master with respect and the same imagination. I have taken the 12” dance mix and “Pippo” mix into this ReStructure Mix to pay tribute to Moroder’s original as well as the Italo-disco counterpart so well executed. I have added a few of the original elements to piece this journey into a completeness that will give the ride a pleasing familiarity. |
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You Make Me Feel Brand New - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lorraine McKane Lorraine McKane is known for her big dance track “Let The Night Take The Blame” from 1984. A track which revitalized the high energy movement with its direct target for the night life and its disco diva spotlight allowing the lure of the night lights to point the fault for a short but sweet relationship. It was that disco magic rolled into a song. “You Make Me Feel Brand New” from 1990 is Lorraine’s fabulous high energy cover of The Stylistics 1974 soul classic ballad. It gives the piece a wonderful pitch into disco space with its sweet yet defined vocal from Ms. McKane and the high energy production from Steve O’Donnell who gave us work from David Boydell, The Salsoul Orchestra and Tracy Ullman and Pete Ware who also gave us in the dance arena tracks by Bona-Riah, Divine, and Hazell Dean. I have taken the original 12” version and focused on taking the existing energy and extending it. The beauty of the original is still intact and only pieces and parts of the rolling bass synths and climactic keyboards are given more opportunity to relay the magic of the song. Lorraine’s vocals are rearranged in spots and given a layered fade out. |
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The Beast In Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Silence 2 featuring Gordon Grody Silence 2 is an 80s dance project from Italo-disco’s most essential producer, Mr. Jacques Fred Petrus and arranger Celso Valli – paired along with longtime vocalist Gordon Grody who performed in many sessions including disco groups Lemon, Gregg Diamond’s Starcruiser and Bionic Boogie, Change and B.B. & Q Band. “The Beast In Me” is a track released in 1984 twice. This version by Gordon Grody and the Italo-disco duo Petrus and Valli is an electronic version in the synth-pop mode where the release by Bonnie Pointer in the same vein with more of a rock edge poured into the mix. Grody’s vocal bring a 80s male rock flair with his Steve Perry flair and style. It is one of early morning weapons I would reach for when those eerie playlist call for the deeper mood of energy. A must for those moments for me when a little jolt was needed early in the AM. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental into the ReStructure Mix phase to create a blend for the heart of the song. In the early morning arrangement when the mood stays where it is haunting and eerie. A few elements of percussion are added to peak the breaks and chorus spots for more push. |
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Skydancer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Android Android is an electronic disco project from The Netherlands featuring Imro Van Hetten and Marc Hartman. Their first single from 1986 followed in the Italo-disco sound with a keyboard instrumental journey titled “Skydancer”. The track utilizes the heavy down beat with rolling sequencers providing the foundation for a short interlude. Many of Italo-disco music’s instrumental pieces crossed over into a wider audience in the mid-80s gave the high energy theme a direction. “Skywalker” is pieces of keyboard which emulate a space or futuristic feel. May sound like a motion picture theme cut down to a dance track. It is one of the periods of dance music where once again a sound influenced another change in direction. I have taken the 12” and dub versions of “Skydancer” and created a new layout in this ReStructure Mix. It uses more of the keyboard parts as the flow along with a riff from a familiar composition from Giorgio Moroder which helped to bring about this sound all together. |
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It’s Hot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Unyque Unyque is a disco ensemble from 1979 produced by Britt Britton and Freida Nerangis of Crown Heights Affair. The project introduces an array of funk and disco tracks that emphasize the best fusion of soul and funk into the disco arrangement. Heavy on the horns and the content of both disco numbers and funk are fitting in vocal delivery and energy. “It’s Hot” is a track from the project which caught my ear for its slick lyrics and tight horn sections. This one feels like the Crown Heights Affair that helped to influence soul to disco music in the mid-70s. A nice dance track that fills the shoes of uplifting dance floor themes like “In The Bush” with the same sensuality blended in. I have taken the album version of “It’s Hot” and recreated the energy in a 80s form by adding a familiar synth-edge. This ReStructure Mix extends the chorus mainlines into more of what makes it what this set out to relay in disco music. A play with beats and the existing percussion and congas make it more of a dance floor event. |
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I have taken the 12” instrumental and vocal versions of “Green Onions” and reframed this underground piece into a new ReStructure Mix. It uses some of the original effects from Soft Cell’s influential track and also pulls more of the rhythm into a new arrangement. |
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Got Got Money (and I moo) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Five Letters Five Letters is Claude Vallois and Denis Desrouvres – a duo who explored the abstract sound of dance music using the French language as an instrumental piece of many of their recordings. Their 1979 album “Got Got Money” is their disco/high energy Tour de Force which helped to make disco music a powerful outline during a period where the direction took a new step. This percussion filled project is much like a hardcore project as studio pieces from Erotic Drum Band created earlier on. It left the imagination open for anything as we find here. “Got Got Money (and I moo)” is a fast moving track with some of the most infectious keyboard and drum fills in a dance track. The chorus line leaves a curious mind entertained throughout a transition of funky keyboard sounds that emulate a 60s psychedelic trip. This one was an instant draw for me since my programs often built them to a top level of this energy. I have taken the 12” version of “Got Got Money (and I moo)” and in tribute to a track as such released during a transition of disco peaking and fading as a pinnacle. It is broken down in segments for this ReStructure Mix to present a new flow from the original arrangement to bring more of the energy to the track. The bongo and drum fills are still the hit here and always remind me of a dance floor entranced in disco energy. |
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I Strip You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Easy Going Easy Going is an Italo-disco project from Paul Micioni, Giancarlo Meo and Claudio Simonetti. At the creation of a new genre of dance music this trio brought a new light to dance floors in a cutting edge style. Their first big dance floor hit, “Baby I Love You” combined the work which producers like Giorgio Moroder were formulating with an electronic production and intent. “Fear” is from their 1979 project and displays a new layering and attitude for not only the Italo-disco genre but also a breath of freedom for its creators. A rush of energy just as Peter Jacques Band’s “Fire Night Dance” brought a few years earlier. “I Strip You” is a wonderful journey into a denial of gay sexuality between our bands vocalist who eventually exclaims in a sexual situation that a female suitor is barking up the wrong tree. A definite move forward from the Village People and their prior attempts at making the Y.M.C.A. a cruising stop. This track is powered by pure disco energy and the elements of the time poured in buckets. I have taken the album version of “I Strip You” and focused on breaking down the electronic production into layers and then applying a ReStructure Mix touch to its greatness. It plays out in bits and pieces yet gives a new work for those who want to hear it new and completely unlike the original – yet it is what it is – Italo disco! |
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Funk Encounters - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Constellation Orchestra Constellation Orchestra is a disco project from 1978 and produced by Jesse Boyce and Moses Dillard – the duo that also delivered Saturday Night Band, Lorraine Johnson, and Frisky. This is New York Disco at its finest. A true blend of the soulful and funk elements of the early 70s and the smooth and chic edge of this new music fashion called disco. Jesse Boyce and Moses Dillard have captured the period in their music beginning with their classics, “Come On, Dance, Dance” by Saturday Night Band and “Feed The Flame” by Lorraine Johnson – here with “Funk Encounters” they work another trip to the disco galactic world of the time period. Funky bass guitars play out the time travel with lots of their synthetic effects to take the dance floor on another journey. I have taken the album version of “Funk Encounters” and worked on the rhythmic pieces of this dynamite number for this ReStructure Mix. More of that infectious bass is roaring throughout this new arrangement and the horns are the centerpiece for the energy. More loops create a few new breaks and moments where this track plays us to another level. |
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Underfire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Debra Dejean Debra Dejean is a disco artist who released one album in 1981 produced by Bo Bohannon and Carl Marsh. The project featured a few hardcore dance tracks with a rock edge appropriate for the early 80s and a high energy cover of Smokey Robinson’s “You Really Got A Hold On Me”. This album also featured a cover of a 1979 track from an artist titled Jackie called “Underfire”. The original in synth-pop format was produced by Terry Britten. Debra’s version takes the soft original and transforms it with a kickin’ rock feel giving it a new funk-like energy. A nice vocal performance by Debra on this project leaves many of the tracks memorable as this version of “Underfire”. I have taken the 12” version of “Underfire” and transformed the rhythm force into a new ReStructure Mix completing it with a new into and bounce induced fade. The original is cut and pasted into a new arrangement and I focused on the elements which made it most favorable to me throughout the years and during its release. This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ms. Debra Dejean who passed in June 2015 – leaving behind a memorable album for those who danced in the 80s. |
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Come On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jules Tropicana Jules Tropicana is a disco project from Barcelona and features Ritchie Rauet, Sergio Oca and Jules Nikoko. “Come On” is their first single from 1983 and lays out the high energy sound which would soon become a standard in the mid-80s. It was the transition to electronic music and the energy it created from start to finish on many projects as this. The smooth rolling synthesizers here and the nice calm vocal create an ominous effect. One of the big hits of my club and a wonderful marking point for the soon to become dance floor sensation of high energy music. I have taken the vocal and instrumental version from the 12” of “Come On” to rework the energy into a new ReStructure Mix. I have used pieces of the fabulous original mix only to add to the mechanism of already existing power. |
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Shattered Glass - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Branigan Laura Branigan is a performer who took dance floors higher with her 1982 vocal performance on “Gloria”. A rejuvenation of dance floors with just a touch of Laura’s yearning rock edged high end. “Shattered Glass” is a 1987 single from her “Touch” album and was produced by Stock, Aitken and Waterman of Rick Astley, Mel and Kim, and Kylie Minogue success. Another emotional heartbreak number with the flavor of Laura’s vocals which always are effective. This one pulled dance floors into the beat and clap house fills that SAW used in many of their productions along with the rolling guitar bass for the energy. It is one of her powerful messages and a favorite of the die-hard fans of Ms. Branigan. I have taken the 12” version of “Shattered Glass” and broke down pieces of the percussion and beat tracks to overlap some new energy to this ReStructure Mix. Once again the arrangement is completely overhauled for a new dance and heartfelt experience. A fade out again is given to echo the drama and excitement of this number. |
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Time To Get Down - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kat Mandu Kat Mandu is a disco project from producers Denis Lepage (Lime) and Joe Le Greca with one of the landmark disco tracks from 1979, “The Break”. The group also featured Ritchie Rome (The Ritchie Family, African Suite) on orchestrations and arrangements as well as Cissy Houston on backing vocals. “Time To Get Down” comes from their second album titled “Get Crackin’” from 1980 – it is light groove with lots of the percussion that this ensemble is known for. Jimmy Ray performs the lead vocals as he did in the first album with a distinctive sound and delivery which is soothing and yet lay back and funky. A nice early evening piece that brings a touch of mild energy to the feet and reminds the floor what they are doing. I have taken the album version of “Time To Get Down” and revamped a new version for this ReStructure Mix. Taking the deep bass guitar riff and building around it and the heavy drums and percussion. It has much of the extended elements and editing to break the song up from its original layout. |
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People Say It's In The Air - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Herrey's Herrey’s are a trio of three brothers: Louis, Per and Richard Herrey who were a pop recording group during the mid-80s throughout the mid-90s. “People Say It’s In The Air” is a single released in 1985 and produced by Anders Engberg and caught the attention of the dance clubs and music enthusiasts whom were taken by anthem songs. This one was a big mover for hardcore dance clubs which takes on a new meaning with big tracks which reach more than the feet as this one does. It is a beautiful and melodic love song with a chorus of hope and celebration. The Herrey’s are one of the parts of this anthem category for this number and many who danced all night to songs like “Hang On To My Love” by Jimmy Ruffin and “No Regrets” by Quartzlock know this mood well. I have taken the 12” ‘Red, White and Blue Remix’ – vocal and instrumental and reworked a ReStructure Mix which adds more to the celebration with a longer intro and a fading chorus. I have added a far off percussion riff to give this one a haunting edge and keep the mystery of this genre of dance music rare and energetic. |
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Down To The Wire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bob McGilpin Bob McGilpin is a musician and artist who are best known in the club walls for his big inspirational hit “Superstar” from 1978. One of the only disco singles of the time to feature 2 remixes since its rein was on top as a Top 10 disco hit. Bob also brought to disco music a unique sound of funk and his nice vocal presence. “Down To The Wire” is from Bob’s 1980 album on Casablanca Records and is produced once again by Norman B. Ratner – who also produced Lou Rawls, Lola Falana and Gene Page projects. This 1980 release is a wonderful dance track which features the lush strings of the 70s disco sound and another uplifting proposition from Bob. One of the favorites of the time when Bob’s refreshing sound gave dancing the freedom it needed. I have taken the album version of “Down To The Wire” and focused on the same formula which made “Superstar” one of my favorites. Adding some new rhythm elements to bring out the groove and the beauty of the disco arrangement. More of Bob is brought to the surface and the rolling bass hidden in the original recording. |
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For Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Discotheque Discotheque is a project from Bart Van De Laar (Night Force) and François Weyer formed in 1979. Their single “For Your Love” is a high energy cover of 1965 The Yardbirds rock classic. This version follows the disco formula stripped down and raw. Bass and rhythm guitars are the formula behind the groove of this disco track. It follows the last of the big disco productions which were built into the sound of the late 70s. Most clubs who found this version memorable are the big afterhours dance palaces who began to shift more to a progressive 80s dance format. The vocals are echoes of the male 60s bands with a touch what the song calls for. I have taken the 12” version of “For Your Love” and created this ReStructure Mix adding more percussion to give it the shake down which it deserves. A new arrangement focusing around the main content is expressed here and of course it is tailored to the original afterhours feel. |
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I'm A Dancer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - V.I.S.A. V.I.S.A. is an Italo-disco project from 1979 produced by Angelo Piccarreta and arranged by Celso Valli. This four cut album is the blend of Italo-disco changing the landscape of disco music which we knew from the late 70s. The energy became more of the focus and electronics were the solution for the sound of this continuum. “I’m A Dancer” is from the album titled “San Francisco” and it is one of the perfect club records of its time. It takes the dance floors on a trip back to the underground feel of disco music where the beat was only there for the chorus and remained light and almost unnoticed though the story of a man so in love with losing himself on the dance floor he compares it to his romance. One of the great works of arranged/producer Celso Valli as he relies on horns, rolling bass and disco syndrum effects to cast an almost moody and dark energy. A favorite project of mine and one which took me back into the basics of disco once again. I have taken the album version of “I’m A Dancer” and choreographed a new phase for this song. It has more of the top layer of percussion with claps and high end to give it more power. The vocals are left intact as they are the message that the 80s brought from Italo-disco as many still yearned to express themselves as a ‘dancer’. |
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Nighttime Heaven - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Technos The Technos are Bev Sage and Steve Fairnie – originally titled The Techno Twins on their first releases. The duo created a synth-pop dance sound which used a touch of the nu-wave edge to give their music a 80s feel. Their 1984 single “Nighttime Heaven” is one of their most memorable of the club scene and was produced by Phil Harding. It is a beat pounding rhythm with a challenge from our lead vocalist to create the celebration that their music weaved. It was a huge hit for me during its release and always brings to mind the power of electronic dance music and the fusion it was discovering during the early and mid-80s. I have taken the 12” version of “Nighttime Heaven” and did some sharp cutting to recreate this ReStructure Mix. It is more of an arrangement which focuses on the heavy parts of the rhythm and chorus pieces of the song. It is another tribute to the electronic and synth-pop influence on disco music during a new era. |
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Discomania - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Lovers The Lovers is a studio project from disco producer, Jacques Morali who began the success of the disco medley. His production of The Ritchie Family’s “The Best Disco In Town” from 1976 was a take on the mid-70s disco influence and where it was headed. The success of the medley both in clubs and radio brought the following of the mash up of hits tracks in the disco medley form. “Discomania” by The Lovers is another similar piece using the big dance floor movers of the time. Jacques Morali also produced The Ritchie Family’s big disco era hits as well as Village People, Patrick Juvet, Phylicia Allen, Eartha Kitt and Julius Brown. “Discomania” is a time piece and reflects the excitement that this genre of music brought to the world. I have taken the vocal medley and instrumental versions from the 12” of “Discomania” and created a new ReStructure Mix which takes the pieces of the medley into a new arrangement. The chorus has been amended to fit into a more ambient and current dub feel and the bass is still pumpin’! |
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Can You Do It Forever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Virgin Virgin is an Italo-disco project featuring vocalist Emanuela Gubinelli on “Can You Do It Forever” from 1992. The production by Giacomo Maiolini was the turning point in Italo-disco and the once again influenced by the high energy movement. “Can You Do It Forever” is a beautiful and melodic love song with a punch thanks to the sweet yet lovely harmonies created by Emanuela. Almost haunting at times when the sweeping keyboard movements slide into a new verse or chorus. One of the big high energy hits for my dance floor on weekends and another need to build up to that momentum that fast paced dance records would mold in a set. I have taken the 12” extended, accapella, instrumental and ‘last version” from the Time Records release and rearranged the song with a longer intro to ready your senses for the rolling bass sequencers and added high end percussion. |
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Shinin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gregg Diamond's Hardware Gregg Diamond is a pioneer of disco music. His productions combined the funky sound of pop-rock and a fusion of disco. Much of his work including projects by Bionic Boogie, Starcruiser, Andrea True Connection and Gloria Gaynor have always been considered classic and the best always. Hardware is a disco ensemble from 1979 for Mercury Records where he creates the disco edge with more of a rock feel. The pounding of the disco beat still moves his rhythms and his chorus includes Zach Sanders, Diva Gray, Gordon Grody and Jocelyn Brown. “Shinin’” is another great example how Diamond takes a phrase and creates many innuendos with both music and his presentation. An attribute which always made his music unique. I have taken the album version of “Shinin’” and worked it into frenzy in this ReStructure Mix. It blends out several parts into a main focal groove of segments in this new mix. A new intro and fade are plays for a method that always seems adequate for a classic groove as this. |
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Space Ranger
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Araxis Araxis is a disco project from producer Jurgen Korduletsch – a progressive producer, arranger, writer and musician who also gave us Claudja Barry, Disco Circus, Lipstique, Ronnie Jones and Gaz. His 1982 single “Space Ranger” is a memorizing dance track which echoes the 70s galactic theme with the electronic work that was being formulated with his 1979 band Disco Circus. This one sounds like a theme from a television show with a Star Wars theme and a hardcore club percussion layer that literally ‘taps’ into the soul. Another piece that follows the experimental and imaginative projects which were being released by Giorgio Moroder during the same period. This 12” single was one of the singles which found its way into many afterhours dance playlists during that lingering dance hall experience. It is one of my underground favorites and always brings me back to the mature disco sound of electronics with a simple outline. I have taken the 12” single version of “Space Ranger” and recreated a new exploration of this imaginative piece. There are some new raging elements put into place to bring out more of the drama which is light yet effective in this rolling number. A few breaks are added to continue the space journey of this hero. |
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Heartbeat
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Taana Gardner Taana Gardner is the one of the disco artists that brought the deeper side of funk out within disco music. Her first album released in 1979 included the big Paradise Garage hit “Work That Body” and also the follow up “When You Touch Me” both iconic for both Taana’s sound and also the underground dance sound soon to become house music as disco music evolved. “Heartbeat” is a single released in 1981 and is another production by Kenton Nix with an exploration of the electro-funk edge in dance music during the early 80s. The track was a huge hit and gave hope to a new era of dancing in clubs and radio program that specialized in bringing the new edge disco to the airwaves. I have taken the 12” version of “Heartbeat” and reworked the ‘heartbeats’ and funky rhythm tracks into a new ReStructure Mix. More of the underground is injected into this mix with more breaks aimed at striping away at the motion. Taana is again here to let us know how a heart can feel when under a new sensation with love and a funky groove. |
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Born To Be Alive
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kelly Marie Kelly Marie is one of the voices of dance/disco music whose power is always felt. Her achievements have been her versatile approach to each song. Her big hit “Feels Like I’m In Love” from 1979 is one of the tracks which became not only a landmark on the dance floor but also helped to give the end of the disco era a great send off. Kelly released a tribute to one of the great disco tracks from the golden age of disco – 1978 and the classic, “Born To Be Alice” by Patrick Hernandez. This cover is exciting as Kelly’s enticing vocals create the sensation of freedom all over again. Produced by John Davies and Nigel Stock of the Passion Records high energy machine. This rolling version is a great vehicle for Ms. Marie and she surely takes advantage of the stage once again. I have taken the 12” vocal of “Born To Be Alive” and transformed the key elements into a new ReStructure Mix which beefs up the energy like a hoe-down at the disco corral. I have reworked the original with the emphasis of an all-night party breaking loose and Kelly is right there…once again! |
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Perfume of Love
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Scala Scala is an Italo-disco project from 1985 whose first single “Macchina Nera” was featured on an issue of Razormaid giving it the stamp of alternative dance. Their heavy use of pounding beats and heavy bass along with themes that follow another realm are the encompassing addiction to Italo disco. Produced by Joseph Angelli and Renzo Luchetta – this all electronic production is a fierce deep pounding 80s dance number that resonates. The sensual vocals are wonderful throughout the song even in spoken verses. I big hit for me during the high energy period and one of my favorites for those afterhours programs and a big leap for Italo-disco. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental versions to create this ReStructure Mix and accentuated those drums into their further riff. It is a longer and more use of those vocal tracks and sharp keyboard pieces are one which I also imagined. |
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Hold Me Touch Me
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carolyne Bernier Carolyne Bernier is a Canadian disco artist who made the mid-70s dance floors a beautiful place to be. Her first single “Hold Me, Touch Me” is one of the loveliest dance tracks from 1977 and brings the early signs of disco music’s new direction for the time. Produced by Tony Green who also gave us France Joli, U.N., Freddie James, Geraldine Hunt and Goldie Alexander. This production is the essence of the touch disco period. It is one of Carolyn’s memorable tracks and gives a European flare an easy play for those who admire the lush sound of disco music. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Hold Me, Touch Me” and reworked the elements of both versions into this new ReStructure Mix. There is a longer intro and fade out to allow the dreamy and sexy sound another opportunity to make its way back into the heart. |
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Dr. Sex
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pleasure and The Beast Pleasure and The Beat is one of the bands from the early 80s which played a role in shifting the synth-pop/alternative dance sound into high energy. Their 1983 single “Dr. Sex” is one of the alluring pieces of electronic music. An alternative edge with backing from many radio stations dedicated to the 80s nu-wave dance market. Produced by Jimmie O’ Neill and played out in a mystical arena with a female vocal which embodies the Siouxsie and The Banshees mood. A heavy layer of make vocals give it a sleaze feel with a touch of punk. One of the memorable pieces of the 80s and the open creative field for producers and artists. I have taken the 12” version of “Dr. Sex” and layered those pumping bass key notes into a new ReStructure Mix. Focusing on the spell that the lead vocals seem to work and making every turn a new one. |
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Here Comes The Night
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Beach Boys The Beach Boys are one of the iconic sounds in music history. Their music brought on the reflection of a time and place. As disco mirrored balls and dance floors were brought to life by disco, The Beach Boys sound gave an outline of the Southern California surfer scene on the shore. Their harmonies were the immediate lure of their music along with the smooth rockin sound of their guitars. In 1979, as most artists and bands did The Beach Boys release a disco single titled “Here Comes The Night”. It was brought to life with the magic of disco producer Bob Esty who took the song and gave it the feel of what disco music and dance floors were feeling. I can remember the excitement of this single when it was released and the cornerstone of disco music it represented. A great bouncy number with the vocals which make The Beach Boys just how they are remembered. I have taken Bob Esty’s 12” marvel using both the vocal and instrumental to recreate the “night” once again in this ReStructure Mix. It is laid out with more of Bob’s electronic outline and focuses on the wonderful past of this band’s music. |
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I Need You
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Claudia Hart (with Mix Up) Claudia Hart is the vocalist on “I Need You” – a track produced by Mix Up (Biagio Farina, G. Gioia and J.P. De Blasio). This release from the Canadian dance label Uniwave Records from 1979 is a hint of the changing face of disco music as it moved into a full electronic production. The music here sounds like early Italo-disco and our lead vocalist Claudia Hart performs this love song in the same vein. A sexy and yearning number for a lover who needs to know how much desire is involved. Heavy on the percussion and bass synthesizers for one of those 80s disco moments. One of the sweetest 12” singles with the Canadian dance movement intact. I have taken the 12” disco and rock versions to recreate a new ReStructure Mix which smooths out the arrangement with more of the pumping bass and keyboards between our delicate vocal. I have also attempted to take the BPM of this song under control and a new bongo pattern is overlaid throughout this new version. |
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Gimme Love
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Harry Chalkitis Harry Chalkitis is best known for his work with the disco group Queen Samantha. His production along with Charles Ibgui made the single “Take A Chance” a disco classic along with Chalkitis’ arranging and conducting. The sound he creates is that European pop disco flavor and also with tracks like “Take A Chance” an eerie underground feel. Harry Chalkitis released his first solo album in 1975 titled “Marita” and in 1981 a follow up project titled “So Long” – “Gimme Love” is from this album and is that sound which Chalkitis weaves very well. A bit more on the pop edge yet this style is still as satisfying as the hardcore dance numbers of the time. I have taken the album version of “Gimme Love” and transformed the short radio version into an extended ReStructure Mix. A few new elements have been added to insure the beats make ever second worth it and some breaks to mesmerize this great dance number. |
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Follow The Brightest Star
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Voyage Voyage is a band from France whose dance music shaped disco music for the finale of anthems. Their big hits “From East To West” and “Souvenirs” are perhaps the most uplifting and memorable dance floor classics of the late seventies. The finale album from Voyage in 1982 titled “One Step Higher” contained a wonderful closing to their odyssey of dance music celebrating our world – “Follow The Brightest Star”. This one plays out like a 70s Euro-disco track with a beautiful resonance. It defines their sound in its entirety with the beautiful lyrics, sweet chorus and uplifting rhythms. One of the most wonderful sounds for the end of the disco era. I have taken the 12” of “Follow The Brightest Star” and reworked another journey to a great place in this ReStructure Mix. The intro and chorus parts are dissected to give more of what this song brings alive. More of the song is better and a fade out with the chorus is the curtain call you may have been waiting for. |
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Whatcha' Gonna Do
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stephanie Wells Stephanie Wells is a Canadian disco artists from producers Gino D’ Orazio and Tony Bentivegna (Nightlife Unlimited) and released one album titled “Fools In Love”. A big stamp on the Canadian disco import label Tojo Records in 1983 where much of the electronic dance tracks were creating a stir again on dance floors. This was the dawning of high energy music which was given its name since the electronic sound produced a nonstop rolling edge. “Whatcha’ Gonna Do” is that disco vein where the beautiful vocal is the top of level of the track and the swirling sounds created with keyboards and sequencers are the orchestral foundation. It is the return to the underground feel of disco music where the rhythm was the true essence. I have taken the 12” version of “Whatcha’ Gonna Do” and worked a new ReStructure Mix not only extending the beauty of its lyrical verses but adding a new intro and breaks. The keyboard synth is extended the way I hear it in my head and the chorus still shines. A great track that helped to save the dance floors again in the early 80s with a return to the disco passion that had not yet ended. |
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Sex Dance
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lisa Lisa R. Fredenthal-Lee is a disco singer who brought the early 80s alive once again with her single “Jump Shout” – produced by Barry Blum and John Hedges. The song was one of the 12” releases that helped make San Francisco’s disco based label Moby Dick Records a standard. Lisa released her debut album titled “Lisa” which featured more electronic dance tracks displaying more of this artists colors in an 80s flair. “Sex Dance” is the third release on the second 12” from the project. This one is aimed at a somewhat suggestive idea that moving to dance music brings on the need for intimacy and release. A bit more could only enhance the feeling that we have all been experiencing for years. It is one of the sleepers from the project yet it still presents that sound which Lisa brought alive in the early 80s. I have taken the album version and 12” of “Sex Dance” and recreated a new lesson for this ReStructure Mix. It holds more breaks and surprises where my aim was to go deeper into the moves as it promises more. |
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Street Talk
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio Gino Soccio made the end of the disco era a need for an ambient and abstract sound which was only beginning on his first project, “Outline”. The early 80s were the movement towards an electronic dance sound which Soccio embraced in his own creative mind. “Street Talk” is from his 1981 album titled “Closer” and follows a synthesized metal sound with a touch of the nu-wave lightly sprinkled with distorted sounds joining a funky vocal from Erma Shaw. The track is a notable one since it gives his percolating and ambient feel a full on effect. One of the hidden gems from his many genius productions. I have taken the album version of “Street Talk” and revamped the outline with a new arrangement and accenting the ticking percussion which keeps the rap here moving. The dreaminess is embraced with a few drop out breaks and some phasing. One of my favorite styles of Soccio in a new package. |
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Hot Love In Spain / Porompompero
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Crystal Grass Crystal Grass is a French disco group created by Lee Hallyday. Their 1974 self-titled album contains their classic “Crystal World” which displays a mysterious side to disco music as it emerged from soul. Their second album, “Dance Up A Storm” features singer Leroy Gomez (Santa Esmeralda) on saxophones. “The Love Train” from 1978 displays the theme which European disco used music from the past and themes segued into a medley. Most of DJs the clubs allowed for long play. Kristi Barton is the guest vocalist on this project and takes us around the world with standards and a few pop disco covers with a Cerrone-like chorus alongside. Much like the Voyage concept from Roger Tokarz. Our stop in Spain features “Hot Love In Spain/Porompompero” which features some great Spanish guitar work and authentic vocal serenading our diva as she passes through. A nice full orchestrated disco number that is by all means sophisticated as most emerging French disco was. I have taken the album version of “Hot Love In Spain/Porompompero and recreated a new ReStructure Mix. I have added an intro to bring in the transition of this mood and also lots of claps and new beats to pound out that “hot love”. |
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The Fruit Song
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jeannie Reynolds Jeannie Reynolds is a soul singer from the mid-70s who joined the Casablanca Records roster in 1976 with her first album titled, “Cherries, Bananas and Other Fine Things”. “The Fruit Song” was produced by Don Davis and being one of those sexy and alluring records which gave the feel of disco music the mood lighting it needed. This one plays out with bongos and congas beating a sexy pattern for Jeannie to express her love for passion fruit and her lover. A nice soul and sexy disco number with soaring strings and some moans and sounds that may bring to mind romance to the hilt. I have taken the album version of “The Fruit Song” and laid out the basic percussion track to recreate this ReStructure Mix. It plays out much like the original with only a couple of new breaks and some nice fruity percussion pieces to accent this sexy song. |
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Beat Street Strut
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Juicy Juicy are a brother and sister duo featuring Katreese and Jerry Barnes. Their 1984 track “Beat Street Strut” from the soundtrack of the film “Beat Street” is one of producer, Eumir Deodato’s electro funk masterpieces. The rolling bass and jittery keyboards create a contagious rhythm that moves the mind and feet. Juicy lends their vocals in that disco chorus feel where a celebration is obvious and shouting is done with excitement. One of the big moments for me where the rhythm became the set during its release and those playlists following. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to recreate this bumpin’ street ReStructure Mix. More effects are added and several pieces from the original are sampled and looped to give more challenge to your energy. A special appearance from Sharon Redd finished this remix with more for your moves. |
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Fantasy
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hotline Hotline is a project from Bobby Orlando who took the underground feel of disco music back to the basics of rhythm with his heavy percussion and beats emulated in a street fashion. A new sound which would soon become the high energy music of the 80s. “Fantasy” from 1982 is a spoof of Orlando’s own production “Passion” from his studio group The Flirts from the same year. The instrumental plays out identically with a few changes in EQ and lyrics. This one is for the dancers who discovered the underground feel of Orlando’s early sound irresistible. I have taken the Italian Import 12” version of “Fantasy” and created a new ReStructure Mix with a new chopping job to reconstruct this version into a mystical experience. A sample from Clint Eastwood’s “Play Misty For Me” helps to give it that erotic sound. |
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Brown Sugar
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Man Parrish Man Parrish is one of the New York artists who took an early part of the 80s to rejuvenate electronic dance music. His first album introduced a fierce blend of street-beats, electro-vibes and an early high energy sound to dance floors. “Hip Hop Be Bop” is now a classic dance piece which helped to bring the street sound to many dance floors that many have been reluctant to feel the power behind this new concept. Man also produced many artists and continues to make dance floors his art form for club goers and dancers. “Brown Sugar” is a single released in 1987 and layers the sounds of percussion and Man Parrish’s style of keyboards which often bring back the innovation he created. This cover of The Rolling Stones classic is a dance intelligent move for a work which follows anything but standard. I have taken the 12” version of “Brown Sugar” using both vocal and instrumental to transform this cover into a semi-mashup with The Rolling Stones. It keeps the magic beats that Parrish has created and honors them in a new way. |
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Darkness and Light
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amanda Lear Amanda Lear has taken disco music literally throughout her career. Her material has always been of the abstract and of the strange and dark edge of life. Throughout the material Amanda has always remained true to her talent to perform and her persona. “Darkness and Light” is a single released in 1983 – produced by Peter Ludemann. This 12” single also contained “Love Your Body” which was a big hit on many dance floors as it followed the heavy bass synth which helped to culminate the upcoming high energy scene. The news on “Darkness and Light” looks at the world situation as a bit bleak yet there is hope in her heart and soul. More of an early morning feel and worked for me during many sets at that time. I have taken the 12” version of “Darkness and Light” and repaved a ReStructure Mix which breaks the dark and light into two parts. It blends many parts and loops to recreate the transition and also re-works those heavy bass beats and synths. |
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Cool
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Time The Time is the Jimmy “Jam” Harris, Terry Lewis and Morris Day – who set the 80s on fire with their brand of electro-funk during the early 80s. “Cool” is from their first album which displays the brand and style of what Prince was weaving during his reign as a new artist. This one plays out with the exaggerated appeal of the persona which Morris Day reflected in play. The keyboards are the 80s style of funk and punk rolled into one yet the vocals are as funky as possible. This one stands out for me since it created quite a stir every Friday and Saturday night on my dance floor. I have taken the 12” version of “Cool” and recreated a new attitude ReStructure Mix with some new elements to beef up the power of its funky ed |
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Tonight
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ronnie Jones Ronnie Jones has always been the Motown voice of disco music. His smooth and sweet delivery has always brought to mind the sound of a generation of the 70s which brought soul music to the disco curve. “Tonight” is a single from Ronnie’s 1980 project titled “Games” – produced by Jurgen Korduletsch. The track is an exciting dive into the night where the spotlights are aimed at a good time. This track was a winner for my club at the time as the build from early evening to high energy music was taking place. A very nice and alluring chorus is the center stage of this song and it lingers on with Ronnie’s appealing performance takes over. I have taken the 12” version of “Tonight” and played out a bit more of the fantasy in this ReStructure Mix. The wonderful Jurgen Korduletsch electronic sound that gives off the disco power of the 70s still works like magic here. A few more break inserts and played out choruses give it a new edge. |
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Oh, Don't Lose Your Heart Tonight
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Silent Circle Silent Circle is a German synth-pop band that was formed in 1985. Their sound gently took the edge of bands like Modern Talking with the gentle love themes and rolling bass synthesizers. Silent Circle fits into the 80s dance scene perfectly as its vocal play out in a somewhat alternative fashion. “Oh, Don’t Lose Your Heart Tonight” is a song which caught my ear with the beautiful chords and verse which lead to the familiar call in the chorus. It is one of their most memorable and one which provided a nice transition from early evening to peak hour music for me. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Oh, Don’t Lose Your Heart Tonight” and created a new ReStructure Mix using more of the synthesizer and percussion work as the means. The extended feel gives way to more of the instrumental yet the vocal hook closes it quietly. |
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If My Friends Could See Me Now
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Linda Clifford Linda Clifford is one diva who was on top of the world in 1978. Her big disco hit, “If My Friends Could See Me Now” is one of the songs that made nightlife in the late 70s worth living for. This cover of the Cy Coleman and Dorothy Fields song from the Broadway musical, “Sweet Charity” was given a second life with this flawless disco cover and production. Linda set a precedence for disco music with this recording with her sophisticated soulful interpretation which reflects the late 70s female persona. Above and beyond the pop music sound this disco performance still represents a stylish and slick edge. Produced by Gil Askey and features The Jones Girls on backup. I have taken the album version of “If My Friends Can See Me Now” and restaged a 3 act ReStructure Mix taking the energy from rhythm guitar to the full on orchestrated sections with those sweet disco strings. Along with Linda’s fabulous vocal this re-edit makes was for a new arrangement and fade out to the monstrous sound of this great disco number. |
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Pistol In My Pocket
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lana Pellay Lana Pellay is a high energy artist in the vein of the successful band Dead Or Alive with the help of P.W.L. Productions – with Phil Harding engineering. This camp number is a take of Mae West’s so-called classic line from “She Done Him Wrong”. “Pistol In My Pocket” is fast and furiously means and roars out as the beats and percussion remind our feet that high energy is its own style. The lyrics are fun and a bit mild although Lana’s performance is fun and a bit tame for what I would imagine as a transsexual performer. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Pistol In My Pocket” and reworked a ReStructure Mix with some new bullets and loops to make the fierce number come alive again. It uses some bits of Ms. West at the intro and a touch of what made it all happen at the end. |
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It Takes Me Higher
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ganymed Ganymed is an Austrian disco band who took the futuristic feel of the 70s a step further and displayed their music as a group of space aliens and a hippie-esque lead singer. Produced by Wolf Rene Reitz and executed in a style which soon became known as ‘cosmic disco’? This underground sound uses keyboards and synthesizers the way Giorgio Moroder aimed his project “From Here To Eternity” by taking the imagination process along with the compositions and theme. “It Takes Me Higher” plays out as one of the creatures from the band and another galaxy admit to the disco addiction. It is somewhat moody but every bit as disco music is. The deep beats resonate with a pounding that echoes the feel of another time. Keyboards help to place this one in that realm of the 70s galactic feel – something that CGI could not produce. I have taken the 12” version of “It Takes Me Higher” and pulled out the syn-drums and cymbal effects to a new level with this ReStructure Mix. It takes a new trip for those who find that 9 minutes passes quickly when you are in hyperspace. One of my favorites of the late 70s and indeed one of the most unique bands in disco music. |
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Feelin' Lucky Lately
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - High Fashion High Fashion is an electronic-funk band produced by Jacques Fred Petrus whose past projects included solidifying the energy of disco music with Peter Jacques Band and the beginnings of a New York funk sound with Change. Along with arranger and conductor Mauro Malavasi and musician Davide Romani the music of High Fashion once again brought the sound of New York alive as with Petrus’ past B.B. and Q Band and The Ritchie Family in the early 80s. “Feelin’ Lucky Lately” is once again a positive and uplifting force of dance music to embrace the dance floor. Along with vocals including Diva Gray, Gordon Grody, Philip Balou, Fonzi Thornton and Melissa Morgan this masterpiece is complete. I have taken the 12” version of “Feelin’ Lucky Lately” and reworked a ReStructure Mix using segments of those sharp keyboards and funky beats. I have added a few new pieces to enhance the new mix and also a fade out to make the feeling last longer. This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Erik De Hodge – thanks for the kind words and the request. |
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Love Is Finally Coming My Way
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - True Example True Example is one of Salsoul Records hidden gems with their disco archives. This single is the disco era outlined by Salsoul and influenced by the Philly groove and perfected by dance floors. “Love Is Finally Coming My Way” is a testimonial song about love finding itself in the heart of a needing soul. The vocals are reminiscent of classics by Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes and feature the beautiful tones of The Sweethearts of Sigma. The production by T.G. Conway lays out the Salsoul disco era in one piece. Always a favorite of mine when that “gold mind” label came into heart. I have taken the Walter Gibbons 12” version of “Love Is Finally Coming My Way” and rearranged the song to give it an ambient build and onto the gospel and soul feel of the climax. For those who like to fade along with the music there is also an ambient fade out. The song has been given a ReStructure Mix where pieces of the sounds that make it memorable are used in edits and loops to create lasting power. |
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Love System
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Twins The Twins are Ronny Schreinzer and Sven Dohrow – a German synth-pop band who took dance floors into a new phase of energy with their big hits “The Desert Place”, “Face To Face – Heart To Heart” and “Not Of The Loving Kind”. The early 80s was a whole new layout for dance music as many genres of rhythmic music were fused to recreate the disco aura. The Twins were a dance sound which mimicked the nu-wave feel on vocals and sharp edged synthesizers as pop bands like Duran Duran used sparingly. Soon to become high-energy in the mid-80s with the help of bands like The Twins and their influence. “Love System” is from their 1983 album “A Wild Romance” which is a continuum of their powerful synth touch and the vocal riffs that make their sound linger. It is perhaps one of the most innovative in this genre of the time where beats were often accented with percussion and unique auto-effects. I have taken the 12” version of “Love System” and worked a new ReStructure Mix which takes the rolling drums from the bridge and places them in parts of this new mix to enhance the energy. It is a new celebration of what The Twins call “Love System” and we call a crowded dance floor united in rhythm. |
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Relax
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Frankie Goes To Hollywood F.G.T.H. is one of the most unforgettable sounds and bands of the 80s. Produced by Trevor Horn (Chrome, Buggles, ABC, Malcolm McLaren, Yes, Propaganda) who took the bank onto his new label, ZZT Records along with Paul Morley. “Relax” comes from their 1984 album “Welcome To The Pleasuredome” – it is perhaps one of the kindest fusions of rock and dance synth-pop of the time. A big move as bands like Dead or Alive were participating in. The single “Relax” is and has been highly controversial due to the lyric and suggestive theme – yet the music still powers over all and art is the finale decision here. A huge dance floor hit and the start for this great 80s band that also sparked the careers of Holly Johnson and Paul Rutherford. I have taken the 12” long, radio and instrumental to recreate a new ReStructure Mix which takes off where the fantasy leads the feet and mind. A lot more of the bump and grind bass which reminds many of the big high energy hit “High Energy” by Evelyn Thomas – yet each presents itself in a unique way. |
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Take A Chance
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mr. Flagio
Mr. Flagio is an Italo-disco project from “Fla”vio Vidulich and “Gio”rgio Bacco. This track from 1983 is one of the early Italian recordings which marked the success of this genre of dance music around the globe. The extensive use of the sequencer and keyboards are not a hint of disco music – but a statement. The productions of the early 80s became streamlining and more acceptable in the electronic form – since synth-pop had become the new arena for dance music. “Take A Chance” is a heavy piece in which a simple line: “Let’s break away, come take a chance with me…” is an obvious pick up line. Inserted between the vocoder chorus and dramatic backing vocals which are somewhat operatic is the electronic cowbell which many may recognize as a staple of Klein and MBO. Mr. Flagio released only two single and their focus is definitely the deep Italian disco edge along with the more pop-street edge in a light dosage. I have taken the 12” of “Take A Chance” – using both the vocal and instrumental to combine both for a new ReStructure Mix experience. This one plays out with more with the synthesizer loops and chorus build which made it one of the classics of Italo-disco that it is today. |
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Freeway Of Love
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Aretha Franklin Aretha Franklin is the talent of soul music history. Her voice has released so many deep emotions in a soulful and somewhat operatic delivery. The strength of this voice has marked many moments in history and even today ignites a feeling of freedom and cause. Her recent passing has given me a moment to reflect not only on the power of music – but also the strength of the human spirit. Aretha has given that spirit many times around and I believe that her legacy will be one of the last of true soul. “Freeway Of Love” is a dance track from 1985 produced by Narada Michael Walden. This pop-funk number speaks of the work in a loving relationship and in many ways expresses the freedom once again of love and emotions. Spoken with Aretha’s own instrument – her voice. This ReStructure Mix is a salute to this talent and to keep reminding me that the loss of this woman is more than anyone or I could ever conceive. I have taken the US 12” single remixed by Michael Brauer and gave a ReStructure Mix tune-up for this salute. It is weaved a bit more like a dance floor piece yet the message is always clear thanks to Aretha. |
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Devil's Run
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Jacques Band Peter Jacques Band is a disco group produced by Jacques Fred Petrus and compositions composed and arranged by Mauro Malavasi – both responsible for Macho, Change and Midnight Gang. This blend of fast and frantic rhythms with plenty of swirling electronic keyboards and disco horns and strings is one of the innovative albums of its time. Soon to become the sound of the late 70s disco era this play is more of what the dance floor was feeling during the peak. “Devil’s Gun” is a single from the “Fire Night Dance” and is another example of the power of this disco concept and sound. It is the now the hardcore classic disco/high energy outline for enthusiasts and the dancers who never forgot the sweat that incurred with songs like this. I have taken the album version of “Devil’s Run” and used much of the pieces of energy from the production to create another burst of disco power in this ReStructure Mix. It is laid out in a new way and looping provides a new angle for the basslines and powerful vocals lead by Leroy Burgess. |
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I Wanna Believe
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gina and The Flexix Gina and The Flexix is an Italo-disco project from 1985 – produced by Giancarlo Bigazzi and Giampiero Bigazzi. The project was featured on a compilation/EP album titled “Fuzz Dance” and along with three additional electronic and innovative pieces gave a new angle to Italian disco music. It was the street beat of the early 80s which influenced electronic beats and formulation of a new kick beat and groove. This production, like the EP takes the electronic sound of Italo-disco and blends it with street beats and the 80s nu-wave/rock/alternative edge in a dance friendly manner. “I Wanna Believe” plays out as a synth-pop ala Pretenders style of dance music. The female vocal announces in a defiant manner a need for a romance to materialize. It is one of the tracks that I would love to play either warming up the floor or casting it at 4 am into another world. A great innovative approach for the mid-80s and a mark in Italo-disco that is quite memorable. I have taken the EP version along with pieces the 12” “D.J. Service Mix” and “AM/FM Service Mix” to recreate a new outline for this ReStructure Mix. A 90s classic vocal riff from Cher is added to rekindle that feeling of “believing”. |
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Another One Bites The Dust
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Queen Queen is one of the 70’s rock bands whose innovative creative process paved their success in the early 80s in a new genre of pop music. Their past rock operatic numbers are the highlight of Queen and the fabulous lead vocal from Freddie Mercury. “Another One Bites The Dust” comes from their 1980 album “The Game” which began another trend of an intricate bass loop bringing a song to its higher life. This one plays out as a heartbreak number vs. an Old West shootout. It is the true rock edge played out in full. I have taken the album version, instrumental and accapella to recreate this standoff in ReStructure Mix format. There is a new arrangement and use of the classic lead and bass guitar riffs. A bit of play with Freddie’s vocal is another opportunity to hear the power and control of a great vocalist. |
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Love Masterpiece
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jessica Williams Jessica Williams is one of the true divas of disco music. Her vocals gave many nights of dancing and celebration an experience that would soon become a high energy form of dance music. “Love Masterpiece” is a cover of the 1978 Thelma Houston disco track which was featured on the soundtrack of “Thank God It’s Friday”. Jessica along with The Simon Orchestra (Simon Soussan) give the track a new life and also a unique feel which only a powerful voice as Jessica’s could accommodate. She creates a whole new prescience for the song as she towers above the disco orchestral sound of this production. It is one of the moments in disco music where one can be truly grateful. I have taken the album version of “Love Masterpiece” from Jessica’s “Queen Of Fools” project and worked it into a new ReStructure Mix. A new intro with a back beat driven rhythm gives us another passage into Jessica’s outstanding performance. This one proves that a voice like this can bring disco music to its knees. |
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Your Love Is A Lifesaver
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gayle Adams Gayle Adams is an important artist from the Prelude Records roster. In the mid and late 70s Prelude was focused on bringing the new sounds of disco music to the clubs and dedicated their artists in this direction. As the close of the disco era became more of a reality the label focused their touch on the funk dance scene and in their own flavor became the New York funk sound in the early 80s with singers like Gayle and bands like Unlimited Touch and Secret Weapon. “Your Love Is A Lifesaver” gave this artist an opportunity to display the beauty of her soulful and slick sound. This anthem became quite the stir of a new and funk driven sound being produced by Willie Lester and Rodney Brown. The track has the sweetness of essence of disco with a funk infused rhythm. One of the big shifts in dance music during the early 80s. I have taken the album version of “Your Love Is A Lifesaver” and retraced the funk mix from Kiss FM into this ReStructure Mix. Making the message more of a reassurance to Gayle’s beautiful vocal there are edits and loops which are elements to pump more energy into this funk-tastic number. |
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Thank God It's Friday
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Love and Kisses Love & Kisses is a Euro-disco project from Alec R. Costandinos whose early work in disco’s fame is penning the Cerrone hit “Love In ‘C’ Minor” in 1976. His work as The Disco Syncophonic Orchestra includes his classic “Romeo and Juliet” the project Sphinx. The sound of soul music began its early shift with Barry White brining the full orchestra into the funky grooves and interludes – where the disco connection to European dance music began its full orchestral production. It was indeed another big moment for music in its history. “Thank God It’s Friday” is the theme from the Casablanca/Motown Records 1978 film. This piece took Alec’s group Love and Kisses who have had great success with their first two albums into a more pop-feel with the disco edge. The track plays out in sweetness with a touch of lighthearted comedy as the film did. Love and Kisses featured vocalists from many sessions from the Trident Recording Studios in London who became the sound of Euro-disco in the late 70s. I have taken the 12” version of “Thank God It’s Friday” which was a lengthier version from the soundtrack and reworked pieces and parts for this ReStructure Mix. A new bottom beat and clap are added to pump the energy into a Friday Night feel. More loops are added to remind us of the disco concept which was a powerhouse for the late 70s. |
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Disco '78
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ennio Morricone Ennio Morricone is An Italian composer whose work is best known in films. The most haunting of his compositions is from the 1967 western, “A Fistful Of Dollars” and most recent being his electronic score from John Carpenters “The Thing”. In 1978 his score for the Italian film “Cosi Come Sei” brought a single that follows closely his haunting and always somewhat sensual to the soul. The 12” was re-titled “Disco ‘78” and plays out like a soundtrack with many beautiful qualities – which is most likely where the fusion of a disco single is placed. Much like Morricone’s work there is always a wonderful riff which rings out as this little has. I have taken the 12” of “Disco ‘78” and worked on the main pieces of the theme and its movement as a new ReStructure Mix. Adding a deeper beat to accentuate the rhythm and a few electronic effects to make this ambient flowing beauty into a listening experience as well as a nice early morning awakening. |
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Baby Love
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - C. orchestra C. orchestra is a production from Jean Marc Cerrone from 1983. This cover of The Supremes’ 1964 hit “Baby Love” transforms the Motown sound into a bouncy disco bubble gum mode. It is clever in the use of a harmonica to bring out the saucy lead vocal which sounds like an over the top lovelorn teen. It is fun and has some of the great brass that Cerrone is known for. It is also one of his plays during the early 80s where he was being experimental to find where the disco sound was heading on dance floors that were not quite done moving to new rhythms. I have taken the 12” vocal into the ReStructure Mix arena and used more edits and loops to rework this one again. It has more of the keyboards that weave a whole new feel to this song for an intense disco-fied experience.
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His Name Is Charly
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laser Laser is a disco concept album from producer Wolfgang Hermes (Fox & Promes) with an electronic dance direction. The early 80s were soon to become the synth-pop era once this sound was exposed to dance floors with the expression and creative possibilities. “His Name Is Charly” is a spoof on a situation in a make believe western where a fugitive named ‘Charly’ is on the run to Mexico – obviously to escape the law. The light synthesized keyboard riffs help to play out this rolling dance track in an effective and mysterious manner. It was released on Moby Dick Records in the US during the early 80s as proof that disco was quickly becoming high energy soon. I have taken the 12” on Moby Dick Records and the original album version to weave this ReStructure Mix into a whole new drama. Using more of the rolling sequencers to outline the pulse of the song. More Charly is added to outline the title and of course play out this play. |
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Freedom
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Thanya Thanya is an Italo-disco project from producers Robert Masala (Gloves), Massimiliano Di Carlo (Konner), and Paul Micioni (Trilogy). This 1983 track is one of the innovative electronic pieces which was responsible for the success of this new edge of disco music highly influenced by the work of 70s pioneers as Giorgio Moroder. “Freedom” is an eerie dance song which gives out heroine a moment to project her need to escape the pressure of life. There is a touch of fantasy in the lyrics however the music reflects a moody and underground feel. The stage for this one is indeed a well-deserved moment. Time has proven the success of Italo-disco in the 80s is indeed due to productions as this. I have taken the 12” vocal and dub versions of “Freedom” and used the jittery keyboards and eerie sweeps in a new play for this ReStructure Mix. One of the pure adventures for a disc jockey is a 12” which uses the original content of the song and gives a dub version with a new punch. The new round here is again my interpretation of a somewhat soaring afterhour’s song that “Freedom” – the claustrophobic edge gives it the direction which is unique. |
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Shazam
- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Deodato Eumir Deodato released his project “Knights Of Fantasy” in 1979. The composer and musician had focused on jazz and a fusion of rhythms, Latin and Brazilian style. His venture into the dance realm was well accepted with this project which produced classic tracks, "Whistle Bump", "Space Dust" and "Shazam". The high energy instrumental feel of "Shazam" is what drew me to the album. Its string section reminding me of disco tracks like "I'm Okay, You're Okay" by American Gypsy. This was a nice percussion and bongo dance number that lays itself out in several sections of rhythm guitars, bongo fills, horns and eventually the 70s string sweep. “Shazam” was always nice to watch an early morning dance floor come alive with. I have taken the album version of “Shazam” and reworked a ReStructure Mix to celebrate the disco instrumental with the touch of Deodato’s magic. The Captain Marvel shout adds a focus on the “fantasy” and more breakdowns give just another chance to work the adventurous feet on the dance floor, again! |
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Thelma Houston has one of the fiercest reputations on disco dance floors since her 1976 blockbuster hit “Don’t Leave Me This Way” – a song that changed radio and clubs forever. Thelma made the disco era a home with many tracks which outlined not only the scene but a fusion her soulful voice bringing a layer of emotions to life in an era of great disco music. Thelma’s project from 1984 titled “Qualifying Heat” is a street-beat production influenced by the New York beat-box sound and features tracks produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis – who later became the powerhouse duo creating hits for Klymaxx, Cheryl Lynn, S.O.S. Band and Janet Jackson. “I'd Rather Spend The Bad Times With You Than Spend The Good Times With Someone New)” is an uplifting beat stomping dance number that outlines the “break dance” scene of the early 80s. It uses a powerful and innovative sound that works well with Thelma’s troubled but romantic message. A nice reminder of how dancers and the club energy created the sounds which topped the 80s dance scene as it did in the disco 70s. The progression of disco and dance music continued even though the industry and critics claimed it was dead. I have taken the 12” vocal and dub version of “I'd Rather Spend The Bad Times With You Than Spend The Good Times With Someone New)” to work this ReStructure Mix with more of the dreamy keyboards outlining the mood. It plays out in a new way along with a piece of Thelma’s classic hit aiding the excitement.
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Boom Boom (Let's Go Back To My Room) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paul Lekakis Paul Lekakis gave us one of the high energy classics of the 80’s – “Boom Boom (Let’s Go Back To My Room)”. This sexy number is an enticing and fast paced dance track which follows closely the sound created by Dead Or Alive but in a new package. The production by Italian disco producers Miki Chieregato and Roberto Turatti is another time when Italo-disco used a fusion of the dance floor elements of the time and transforming it into a sound of its own. This one was a big dance floor favorite and made Paul Lekakis a welcomed star to the dance floors for his later hits, “You Blow Me Away” and “My House”. I have taken the original 12” vocal of “Boom Boom (Let’s Go Back To My Room and played out a new proposition from Mr. Lekakis in this ReStructure Mix. There is more real “boom boom” and allot of fun with the original keyboards and that chorus that we all loved to pound and jump to! |
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I'm Your Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - WHAM! WHAM! Are George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley who began in the early 80s as a pop duo bringing a funk and synth edge to radio music. Their success began the solo career of George who later became one of the biggest selling artists of the late 80s. Their single “I’m Your Man” from their album “Music From The Edge Of Heaven” from 1986 brought more of their be-bop-pop sound to the forefront. With George’s vocal upfront and as creatively affected by this love song it was a great pop dance single of the time. I have taken the 12” versions including the “Extended Simulation”, “Instrumental” and “Accapella” to recreate a deep down disco ReStructure Mix. Using more emphasis on the “man” theme and another disco classic by Macho – uniting the two for a new feel. This one was always a favorite since it delivers that sound which WHAM! conquered the early 80s with. |
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Lump - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mutiny Mutiny is a funk band with members from both innovative groups Funkadelic and Parliament – sounds created in the early 80s moving soul music into a new edge called funk. This sound used the fusion of hard-rock guitars and funky grooves moving over a new focus of themes in a bit of distortion. “Lump” is from their 1979 album “Mutiny On The Mamaship” – produced by Jerome Brailey. The track was also featured in the then-controversial film, “Cruising”. The blaring chorus is a take on the sound that Funkadelic made use of to create Parliament. The wah-wah guitars and deep bass grooves are the elegance of hardcore techno soon to come. The piece has always stood out as one of the forerunners of taking the late 70s disco dance floor again into a hardcore state. I have taken the album version of “Lump” and worked on this ReStructure Mix as another underground state. There is more instrumental provided by the guitar distortion pieces and a classic key riff from Herbie Hancock. The full mix is lengthier and for those who can’t get enough funk and dance it should make the edge sharper. |
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Love Is A Strange Affair - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Strange Affair Strange Affair is a disco project from producer Giuliano Salerni who also created the European-disco phase in the US with his group Ultimate (“Touch Me Baby”, “Ritmo De Brazil”) in 1978. His beautiful strings with a disco lullaby edge are always accentuated by a chorus of alluring females in a frame of disco ecstasy. One of the producers of disco music, Salerni was able to transform his style into a European flair as he does with Strange Affair, Ultimate and Tangerue and then a funk edge with his band Hi-Gloss (“You’ll Never Know”). “Love Is A Strange Affair” explores the albums ménage a trois theme with the chorus exclaiming the excitement of sexual exploration. It eventually sounds out in an operatic arrangement that is everything that European disco promised us from the start. The funky guitars and groove is the perfect layer for the strings, horns and percussion. I have taken the album version of “Love Is A Strange Affair” and placed the bill into a ReStructure Mix phase with more of the guitars licking away at the disco beat. More of the sensual feel is played out and extended. |
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Joey, Joey - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vera Vera is Patti Masi – a high energy dance project from producer Louis Toteda who worked on classic disco projects as Nightlife Unlimited and Nite Life from 1978. “Joey, Joey” is from Vera’s 1983 album “Joey”. The soft synthesized arrangement always left the sweet vocal delivery very haunting. The piece falls under the early 80s dance movement where many new wave tracks were emerging and high energy music created its own fusion of both. This one pulls out the “girl-group” sound of the 50s and uses the simple chorus hook as such. A nice electronic piece and another moment for Patti Masi to give dance floors that dreamy yet darling sound. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Joey, Joey” and replanted the go-go feel along with sample from The Ronettes. This time around it is the sock hop with the appropriate edge. |
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I'm Glad That You're Here - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Alphonse Mouzon Alphonse Mouzon is producer, arranger, and drummer who worked from the early 70s creating his brand of fusion-jazz. During the late 70s he is known on dance floors as the force behind the disco band, Poussez! – Which features Christine Wiltshire (Musique, Phreek, Center Stage, Revanche) on lead vocals. The project has become one of the hardcore classics in the disco arena as well as his single “Everybody Get Down” from his project Mouzon’s Electric Band. From the depths of his jazz creations to the hardcore disco grooves Alphonse shows his diversity and use of drummer/percussion talents. “I’m Glad That You’re Here” come from his 1981 project “Morning Sun” which returns to Mouzon’s jazz roots with a touch of UK funk. One of the beautiful numbers that reminds me of a sweet ballad from Barry White and his great ensemble. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental versions of “I’m Glad That You’re Here” and blended the electronic flutes and sweeping strings into a new ReStructure Mix. I have taken the outline of the original mix and moved its mood into a more underground-early morning feel with some new bass synths and drum patterns. |
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Can You Feel It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jacksons The Jacksons took the 80s in their grip with the album “Triumph”- containing the single “Can You Feel It”. This anthem written by Jackie and Michael Jackson not only gave the world promise and hope – but it also brought the dance floor to its knees with a stomping rhythm and ringing message. The Jacksons not only brought the disco era to completeness in 1978 with “Blame It On The Boogie” and “Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)” – they also delivered the 80s a reminder that dance floors were just winding up. I have taken the album version of “Can You Feel It” along with a few sample pieces of the “video” version to work this new ReStructure Mix in a new “triumph. The opening presents the strings as the video does and into a new arrangement and rhythmic edit to continue this powerful message. |
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Activate My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Meccano Mecanno is an Italo-disco band lead by Walter Bassani and vocals by Nadia Bani. Their 1987 album “Extrameccano” featured two big high-energy tracks which dominated club dance floors – “Down Down Romeo” and “Activate My Heart”. Dance music was becoming a roaring wall of electronic sound in the mid-80s transforming dance into a fast moving sweat factory. Meccano took a light jazz fusion and layered it along with this energy. “Activate My Heart” is a sweet love ballad with sweeping hand claps and jewel box keyboards creating a heartwarming track which echoes on and on. Arranged by Celso Valli, Paolo Gianolio and Meccano. I have taken the 12” high energy mix and “London Mix” and blended them into a new ReStructure Mix for another opportunity to hear this one again. The mix itself is extended for more play with some of the haunting elements and more of the sweetness if given more chances to lure hearts and feet. |
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What Cha' Gonna Do For Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chaka Khan Chaka Khan is the voice of 70s funk. In the early 70s during her work with Rufus an introduction to a new layer of funk and soul was created with the extensive and outward delivery of her voice. Harmonies became a new piece of songs which were delivered as anthems with Chaka’s power. “What Cha’ Gonna Do For Me” is from her 1981 album by the same name and also another excellent example of the diverse material which her producer Arif Mardin would create for this wonderful talent. This funky and rhythmic injected tune has the sound of Chaka that made her voice the sweetness and the power of funk that we all know today. I have taken the album version of “What Cha’ Do For Me” and created a new ReStructure Mix for a dance floor that needs more of the bottom base for moving. It has a new arrangement using the original instrumentation in loops and edits for a new experience and a new rolling drum track to give more push for the hips. |
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Tears Run Rings - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Marc Almond Marc Almond is a performer and songwriter who are also known for his work with a project titled Soft Cell – which had a huge hit in 1981 with an electronic cover of “Tainted Love” merging into “Where Did Our Love Go” by The Supremes. His work later became quite iconic as “Tears Run Rings” was a statement for the world to look closely at what is socially relevant as he also explores the loss of his relationship in comparison. A dark but great anthem for clubs and huge dance floor filler. This one had my attention from the start and the mood still sets a spark in the genius of Almond’s talent. I have taken the 12” version and “house dub” of “Tears Run Rings” and took this one into a ReStructure Mix which plays out like a wild peak moment where slaps and kicks make more excitement. I have kept the flow in a new arrangement and also working that rolling sequencer into frenzy at the close. |
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If You Should Ever Be Lonely - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Val Young Val Young is a soul-funk vocalist who released her first solo album in 1985 titled “Seduction”. She worked as back up with The Gap Band and Roy Ayers recordings where her front position was a welcoming sound for tracks like “If You Should Ever Be Lonely”. This single is an emotional piece that yanks at a broken heart when a relationship creates a separation. Val delivers her performance like a 50s heartbreak song can be haunting. Produced by Fred Jenkins and Levi Ruffin, Jr. with a beat and clap echo chamber that works it in a nice rhythmic fashion. I have taken the 12” of “If You Should Ever Be Lonely” and used the “club” and “street mix” to recreate a ReStructure Mix with a lengthier intro and several spots where a delayed response to lyrics are intended for more of that emotional impact. Always a favorite of mine in the early evening build up sets. |
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You Don't Have Dancing On Your Mind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Inner Life Inner Life is a disco project from Patrick Adams, Greg Carmichael and Debbie Haynes – along with the vocals of Jocelyn Brown, Janet Wright, Krystal Davis and Dennis Collins. Released on the New York disco label Prelude Records in 1979 and one of the best disco arrangements in the Patrick Adams and Ken Mazur style. This formula is the finale innovation of years of adhering to the disc jockeys and their dancing throughout the mid and late 70s. “You Don’t Have Dancing On Your Mind” is a track from the album “I’m Caught Up (In A One Night Love Affair)” and plays out with the energy of Adams’ classic Musique album “Keep On Jumpin’” with the female ensemble playing a game with dancing and its sexual connection with disco music. A sweet disco number with all of the bells and whistles that make dancing fun and exhausting in the late 70s. I have taken the album version of “You Don’t Have Dancing On Your Mind” and reworked the powerhouse song into a new ReStructure Mix. Adding a touch of a 80s house classic drum pattern and of course a play at those teasing lyrics and the fantastic breaks. |
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Hey Hey Guy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ken Lazslo Ken Laszlo (Gianni Laszlo Coraini) is an iconic Italo-disco act. His work includes many of the elements which made Italian disco soar in the 80s. The electronic work that took over where Giorgio Moroder left off is written all over this period. A bit more experimental perhaps but even with the simple keyboard riffs there is an element of energy to this sound. “Hey Hey Guy” is Laszlo’s 1984 hit which leaves a bit of imagination hanging musically and fantasy wise. A great synthesizer work leads this one into a somewhat dark and eerie passage. However the energy is high with the performances. A great 80s dance piece and proudly from the Italo-disco catalogue. I have taken the original 12” vocal and dub along with the “Nunk” remixes and mixed elements into this version in ReStructure Mix fashion. Still as rolling and more hidden messages to pull you in with headphones or on the dance floor! |
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Black Brothers - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Black Soul Black Soul is a disco/afro-beat sound from the mid-70s. Al Blamo and Francisco Wallace are the predominant members and their recordings from 1975 – 1981 are the underground drum movement which added to the Afro-Cuban sound of disco music’s notoriety. “Black Brother” comes from their 1977 album which also features Mr. Tom Moulton taking the tracks into a deeper dance floor level. The track is a soul anthem which unites “brothers” to celebrate their roots and the current sound. One of the chants that quickly caught my ears at the time thanks to the many riffs and the cleaver remix by Mr. Moulton. I have taken the 12” of “Black Brother” and reworked a ReStructure Mix to honor this underground piece which if you were lucky enough to have heard it at the time – it was quite a stomper. The new drums and percussion added are to give the disco beat in the afro sound more of a powerful presence. |
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Do It Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paulette Reeves Paulette Reaves is a soul-funk singer who began her recording career in 1976. Her single “Do It Again” from 1981 and produced by Willie Clarke (Betty Wright, Jimmy “Bo” Horne, and Funky Nassau) is one of the big funk-disco tracks that maintained the feel of an underground club recording. It has the arrangements that made soul music and funk a piece of the disco era. Paulette performs here in a teasing and convincing enough to make that move. One of the big early 80s tracks I can remember luring the fans of soul and that Miami sound onto the dance floors. I have taken the 12” version of “Do It Again” and reedited a ReStructure Mix adding only stripped pieces of the production to parts of this tribute. The vocal is the key here so a repeat is added to give Ms. Reaves her stage once again. |
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Kings Of Castles - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vera featuring Patti Masi Vera is a vocalist who brought the sweet melodic feel back to dance music in the early 80s with her wonderful falsetto delivery. Her first single “Take Me To The Bridge” from 1980 – produced by Louis Toteda was an instant classic in dance palaces. Her beautiful vocals along with the hardcore electronic dance production which gave the 80s hope and later high energy music a new found hope. “Kings Of Castles” is her follow up single from 1981 which was originally released with a reggae-like dance feel and then remixed and rereleased in 1982 by Louis and Michel Gendreau. The remix was an instant hit and dubbed one of the top “sleaze” or “early morning” hits of the time. A great number where Patti Masi (Vera) sings about the new generation taking over the time and at times over stepping and wanting more. I have taken the 12” remix of “Kings Of Castles” and worked the magical breakdown elements into a new ReStructure Mix. This is an opportunity to salute both Patti Masi for her lovely vocal talents and Louis Toteda for an array of wonderful dance productions aimed at the discotheques and the dedicated dancers. |
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The Calling - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ken Heaven Ken Heaven is a 80s artist whom followed closely on the falsetto delivery of Bronski Beat’s Jimmy Sommerville of a couple of years earlier. The success of the band Bronski Beat brought many sound-alike vocalists like Ken Heaven and Italo-disco’s Kinky Go who brought their high energy sound with a tribute to the energy and vocal of Sommerville. Ken had a great success in 1986 with his single “The Calling” and although his voice sounding familiar was still refreshing to an audience of dancers desiring that rolling electronic high energy edge. This track is a perfect love track where “the calling” is romance and a promise of content. It is a bit haunting yet the energy builds over and over with the chorus. A big part of my peak hour program of the time. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to the ReStructure Mix cutting board to pay tribute to the high energy 80s sound. The intro and arrangement are given some new breaks and kick to give the energy more of a challenge. A few winding electric breaks are added to give the track more of an underground message. |
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For Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Klaudia Klaudia is an Italo-disco project from masters of Italo-disco Peter Micioni and Paul Micioni. The track titled “For Your Love” is a haunting love song that rings mysteriously and emotionally with a strong yearning. The production team gives this one a similar flavor as their work with Gary Low (“I Want You”) with some great riffs. The vocal is written in several places that may be Dora Carofiglio – where many of these Italo-disco projects were studio projects with artist creation aimed at the songs mood itself. In any wonder, this one is a beauty. One of my favorite Italo-disco numbers and performances. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to recreate a lengthier and airy-like environment for this ReStructure Mix. The difference in the instrumental EQ is worked to preserve the weight of the moody feeling brought on by the vocals and keyboards which tend to be a bit more emotional on both ends. It is slim re-edit with some of the loops and effects to bring on a new trip. |
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Disco Break - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hemlock Hemlock is a disco band produced by Jerry Styner – the music here was featured in the 1979 comedy “Swap Meet”. The Miami band recorded several singles in 1979 and were one of the bands which outlined the disco feel in real time. Their single “Disco Break” is one of their biggest dance floor hits and displays the bands ability to play funky disco to a beat that is smooth and sweet for hustling or freestyle. The track has that Miami flavor and gives the final days of disco music’s rein a great model in its style. I have taken the 12” version of “Disco Break” and re-edited the original in a new attempt to bring this one to a ReStructure Mix format. It borrows a recognizable riff from another “break” and also used those hard end drum rolls in a new arrangement. |
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Super Jock - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Goody Goody Goody Goody is a Vincent Montana, Jr. project from 1978 where he unleashes his sound in a much more laid back groove – unlike his former creation: The Salsoul Orchestra where in 1974 a blend of funk, Philly, and Latin percussion were booming to the disco beat. Goody Goody also features the lovely voice of his daughter, Denise Montana who gives one of the most memorable of disco recordings starting with the powerhouse and classic track “#1 Dee Jay”. “Super Jock” is a vibe oriented piece that uses heavy rhythm guitars to blend this one into an unstoppable production. It was a crossover again for disco as the producer could command the mood and edge of a themed project. This one definitely is one of the most memorable. I have taken the album version of “Super Jock” and transformed this salute to the man behind the turntables with more of the percussion using the rhythm track. The bongos are the element which brings the top layer of this disco track its lure. More of Denise is added in new loops and edits to give a new part of this celebration her identity again. |
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Welcome Back - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Jacques Band Peter Jacques Band is a disco project from producer Jacques Fred Petrus. Petrus was a master at assembling a recording studio full of musicians whom played the heck out of the new period of dance music as disco progressed through it final years. His credits include Change, Macho, Revanche, B.B. and Q. Band, High Fashion and his assemblage band Goody Music Orchestra. “Welcome Back” is the follow up project from 1980 – where the first album titled “Fire Night Dance” set an innovative take on high energy disco music. In this second project we hear the same in many different areas. “Welcome Back” features Luther Vandross on vocals and also arranger Mauro Malavasi once again. A great title track is presented in a hypnotic yet patterned beat that stomps out of the disco beat in a new way. It is one of the moments where Petrus again delivers another masterpiece of disco innovation. I have taken the album version of “Welcome Back” and worked a new ReStructure Mix which adds more percussion and beats to level out the rhythm. It is a great keyboard performance so the original is left intact and only re-looped to give it new life. |
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I'll Be The Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bonnie Boyer Bonnie Boyer is a singer who fit the sound of disco quite well with her album from 1979 titled “Give In To Love” – produced by Giuliano Salerni – who also gave us Hi-Gloss, Ultimate, and Strange Affair. Her first single “Got To Give In To Love” was a big dance floor hit and gave way for her sophisticated, yet sassy delivery. The sensuality of disco music can be felt in her words as the European disco artists did so well. “I’ll Be The Music” is another dance single from the project which emulates that stage disco production that would fit in well in a Las Vegas revue. It is a “femme disco” track that gives Bonnie the stage her voice allows. One of the last of the big disco production songs I can remember on a US label. I have taken the album version of “I’ll Be The Music” and reworked this disco piece into a new ReStructure Mix with more bongos to guide the rhythm and longer arrangement broken down into the funky guitar riff. A nice return to the big disco sound that made dance floors excited with the spotlights and glamour. |
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Forever Lovers - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Italian Boys Italian Boys are Lucio Manfredini and Stefano Francesconi – an Italo-disco project produced by Gianni Salvaton and Florian Fadinger. This beautiful mid-tempo love ballad is a touch of the beauty that disco music brought with sweeping strings and horns in an arrangement. This synth-pop built piece has a melodic chorus along with a touch of Italian-rap that is also as simple and sweet. One of my favorites of the time and one of the tracks I would love to build a program at the start of a weekend night. I have taken the 12” vocal and house versions to recreate a ReStructure Mix to pay homage to those Italo-disco producers and artists who kept the magic alive with their great touches and talent. This new edit gives the track a new arrangement and a long fading exit. It will haunt the hearts of those who love that Italo-disco direction and also give another twirl to those who love romance on the dance floor. |
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Tonight I'm Gonna Make You A Star - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Brenda Jones Brenda Jones is a soul vocalist from the group The Jones Girls and made an impression on DJs and dance floors in the early 80s. Her 1982 dance track “My Hearts Not In It” produced by C.M. Lord and Mark S. Berry brought dance floors into an emotionally charged funk experience. Brenda was one of the soulful female artists of the time worthy of attention. “Tonight I’m Gonna Make You A Star” is her follow up single from 1983 produced by Steve Jerome and remixed by Mark S. Berry. Another powerful ballad-like dance number with a build that feels like a winner on “Star Search” reaching high. It is one of the r&b dance tracks that I favored for early evening programming or easy listening lists. |
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Alisand - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hugh Bullen Hugh Bullen is a funk-soul-disco artist whose recording career spanned the late 70s throughout the late 80s. His Italo-disco track from 1985 titled “Alisand” is interesting in theme and execution. It rolls heavily with synthesizers and keyboards which remind me of early work from Kano. Hugh plays out his vocals in spoken verses which add to the mystique of the words and edge. Keyboards play out most of the energy here and give this Italo-disco number produced by Stefano Scalera a wall of energy. One of the pieces I would use for the afterhours programming when 2 am was the beginning of a new mood. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental versions to play out this ReStructure Mix in a more segmented fashion and allowing the rolling sequencers a new stage. The original 12” version is a great variation mix – this take is lengthier reedit however the focus in this ReStructure Mix are to keep the dance track in the adventurous mode. |
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Love Chant - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eli's Second Coming Eli’s Second Coming is a project from producer/arranger Bobby Eli. This sweet and sexy project features The Sweethearts of Sigma on vocals where the night light is the only trace in this sector. “Love Chant” from 1977 is a sensual orchestrated number which brings to mind that the guest appearance from Vince Montana, Jr. is the cherry on top of this disco monument. It has that Salsoul sound in between the sexy moments the chorus introduces us to its power. A great disco spotlight with the late70s focus in mind |
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Turn It Around - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio Gino Soccio is a disco artist who was far ahead of the sound in electronic elements. His early work was displayed with many of his touches adding a modern-esque feel to disco music as well as some of the earliest techno and ambient dance arrangements. “Turn It Around” is a single from Gino Soccio released in 1984 and is another example of Soccio’s innovative edge. An electronic take on the disco beat allowing funk and ambient like sounds in a dance piece. It is one of my favorite productions from Soccio as it is a dream-like sound and also features his own recognizable vocal. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental versions and blended them as they play out originally with a few edit marks to play this one “around” another way. It is a moment where I stopped and realized that messing with a master was not easy – so the solution was utilizing more of the deejay aspect to recreate another experience. Thank you, Gino Soccio! |
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Circuits Overloaded - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Inez Foxx Inez Foxx (Inez Johnston) is an r&b singer who began her recording career in the early 60s. Her 1974 single “Circuits Overloaded” produced by Randy Stewart and Willie Hall is one of the early funk-disco tracks that followed closely the Miami sound where tambourines and blaring horns set the rhythm. This one is funk classic for me as I recall seeing this number bring a party to life as a young child. It was the start of the fascination with the dance floor and the music which moves it. Inez does one incredible job at convincing us that something is missing in her relationship – however she has it all in this performance. I have taken the 7” version of “Circuits Overloaded” and chopped the fantastic rhythm tracks to pieces for this ReStructure Mix. A percussion foundation has been added to pump up this recording and also extended to give more power to this dying story from Inez Foxx. A funk-disco classic in all means. |
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I Love America - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Juvet Patrick Juvet is a Swiss singer who became a disco sensation in the late 70s with his project “Got A Feeling” – co-produced by Jacques Morali who also brought us Village People, The Ritchie Family and the return of Earth Kitt in the early 80s. “I Love America” is the single which received a great welcome on many dance floors and gained Patrick a new audience. The song emphasizes the excitement of the disco movement in the late 70s and its effect on the big city. It plays out like an anthem and pieces of this big hit have been sampled in house and techno tracks. It is a big uplifting number a gives the dance floor a good reason to celebrate again. I have taken the album version of “I Love America” and reworked this ReStructure Mix focusing on that haunting chorus which seems to swirl even after it is gone. The original piece does not track well as the bpm races up and down so this edit attempts to tame parts with more care. The original production is a definite Morali masterpiece so more of an insert for breaks is more of the difference. |
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Again and Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nikki Lauren Nikki Lauren is a 80s artist who was featured on Disconet Vol. 5 Program 9 from 1983 and is a production from Mark S. Berry who worked on classic productions with Poussez!, Frisky, Roni Griffith and Carol Williams. “Again and Again” is an uplifting dance number which features the synth-pop edge that became the new sound of dance floors in the early 80s. This one is an ecstatic jump into the excitement of the dance floor left over from the end of the 70s. The new interpretation along with Nikki’s vocals creates an anthem dance number. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Again and Again” and worked a ReStructure Mix which pulls out more of the drums and synths into a more afterhour’s mood. The soft feel of the beats are intact and extended for this new experience. A tribute to the music of the early 80s and producer Mr. Mark S. Berry. |
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Embraceable You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Westside Strutters Westside Strutters are a disco project from producer Ross Salome whose venture into the music of George and Ira Gershwin in a disco realm. The production is a sweet air of standards to a disco beat with funky guitars and a fabulous vocal by Carmen Twillie and Sue Raney. “Embraceable You” is part of the first movement from the album titled “Gershwin ‘79” – it is added to a medley including “The Man I Love”. The guitar riff in this arrangement moves the track as a hardcore disco number yet the vocal from Carmen Twillie gives the song its deserved sweetness. I have taken the album version of “Embraceable You” from the opening medley and transformed it into a ReStructure Mix to keep it unique. I have added new percussion to give the fast paced disco number to a lovely hypnotic piece. It is a great concept of what disco what know for best – transforming classic music into a renewed vehicle to introduce to a new audience and keep it alive. |
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Dance Party - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Blue Lazer Blue Lazer is an electronic dance project from Canada – featuring Tony Bentivegna (of Nightlife Unlimited) and Giovanni D’Orazio. The mid-80s welcomed the light and focused arena of dancing again and justifiably so when many still worked for that night on the dance floor. “Dance Party” is a single from Blue Lazer released in 1984 with the uplifting feel of disco music as it left us. This one pours the elements of bass synthesizers playing out the pounding disco beat as the boys direct the attention to the whole purpose the night is here. It was one of the big dance floor movers for me and continues to remind me of the shift into high energy music as dance music became more underground once again.
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Disco King - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carrara Carrara is Alberto Carrara an Italian producer and artist who moved the Italo-disco scene in the early and mid-80s with his bouncy and lovely melodies. His direction has always been the coordination of keyboards and guitar speaking to each other along with the disco beat. “Disco King” is from 1983 and one of his most memorable pieces. It has always brought to my mind the Meco disco version of “Star Wars” and its brief visit to the Cantina where the bass is rolling along with the big band horn blaring. A nice imaginative twist into an Italo-disco anthem. His use of riffs and melodies always satisfies the heart and feet. I have taken the 12” instrumental version of “Disco King” and transformed parts of Carrara’s great number along with a sample of Meco’s production to create this ReStructure Mix. It breaks the original into pieces and reassembles it into a new experience. One of my favorite bass lines here is worked into a new timeline. |
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Castles In The Sky - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Destination Destination is one of the leads in great disco. Their 1979 project “From Beginning To End” produced and arranged by Elton Ahi is one of disco music’s finest moments. The orchestrations set to a disco groove are the perfection from which earlier conductors like Barry White and Vincent Montana were striving to create in a maturity of its time. “Castles In The Sky” is a track from the second movement of this disco trip and tells the story of dreams fabricated out of desires which may not last longer than a glance. Another great vocal performance from lead singer from the group, Mr. Danny Lugo and the music painted by Mr. Ahi is indeed the sound which Butterfly Records worked to press as the top line of disco of its time. I have taken the album version of “Castles In The Sky” and recreated a journey for this pipe dream. A new ReStructure Mix only adds a few elements and edits to give this gem a new lift to remind us of what disco fantasy gave the dance floor at the end of the 70s. It is the genius of those producers and minds like Elton Ahi who worked these concepts with the imagination and groove that stamps the essence of disco very well on it. |
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Yellow Pearl - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Phillip Lynott Phillip Lynott is a bass player whose career with rock band Thin Lizzy in the 70s helped to launch a solo career in 1980 with his project “Solo In Soho”. The single “Yellow Pearl” is co-written and remixed by Midge Ure of Ultravox another big innovative project from the 80s. The heavy synth layers on this big 80s dance track dominate it well and play out over the heavy drum patterns pounding at the foundation. It is one of my favorite crossover dance tracks from 1980 also give an opportunity for Lynott to crossover into 80s synth-pop pool. The track I also featured as a theme to the 80s dance show “Top Of The Pops” at the time. I have taken the 12” import version of “Yellow Pearl” and recreated a ReStructure Mix to extended and make play on those heavy drum beats. The heavy bass synthesizers are accentuated for a more durable energy. This one has always been a weapon of mine for afterhour’s playlists and always worked well for me at 3 am. |
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Never Give You Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Redd Sharon Redd is one of the voices in dance music which completed many arenas of funk and energy. Her most memorable of parts is the fusion of New York funk created in the early 80s namely on the recording label Prelude Records. Sharon’s second project titled “Redd Hott” – produced by Eric Matthew and Darryl Payne is one of the magnificent pieces of dance vinyl of its time. Featuring the hit singles “Beat The Street”, “In The Name Of Love” and “Never Give You Up”. The arrangements here are easy to forget the disco era was entering a new phase of synth-pop venturing from the full production of dance music. This project claimed both the street-funk edge and the high energy anthem feel. “Never Give You Up” is an electronic funk love song that rings out loud with Sharon’s style of vocal appeal. It is one of the best of the Prelude catalogue and is still a favorite. I have taken the promo 12” of “Never Give You Up” – using the vocal and dub to recreate a new direction for this diva’s classic track. I have given pieces of the tracks a heavy beat to bounce over what already uses the rhythm at most. It is a tribute to the Prelude sound and the producers Eric Matthew and Darryl Payne for giving the dance floor a reason to believe and keep dancing. |
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Dance (Whoever You Are) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Partners I have taken the 12” version of “Dance (Whoever You Are)” from the T.K. Records label and remastered and reworked this ReStructure Mix as a sweet as it could be. The original 12” remix from Richie Rivera was pressed a bit muddy and low on volume. I have over laid some of the re-equalized percussion tracks below portions of the song to bring out more of the energy. It is still one of the nice disco hustle pieces I have heard from the time and this ReStructure Mix is a tribute to the end of the TK Disco and disco music era of the 70s. |
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Cover Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Anita Ward Anita Ward brought the end of the 70s disco era one of the most memorable songs – it was “Ring My Bell” from 1979 produced by Frederick Knight. The 12” remix featured by Ritchie Rivera gave the track an extensive sound which later became the songs lure. “Cover Me” is from Anita’s follow up album titled “Sweet Surrender” and is another song with a light groove and sound. Anita has always had a soothing falsetto edge to her delivery and this one works well with these elements. I have taken the 12” version of “Cover Me” and worked some of the percussion and groove parts of “Ring My Bell” into the foundation to bring it more punch. This love song has always been a favorite and this ReStructure Mix places it again in a loving place. |
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Leaving On The Midnight Train - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nick Straker Band Nick Straker Band is a U.K. band whose recording career began in 1979. Their fusion of synth-pop developed a style which became a new phase in the early 80s. A blend of jazz and light disco melodies. “Leaving On The Midnight Train” is an electronic dance track which was best known for a return to the new disco energy of the 80s. This one rolls along with several recognizable elements and a percussion track that stands out as the high energy intro of the period. A nice dance number that always made my dance floor come alive again. I have taken the 12” version of “Leaving On The Midnight Train” and worked this ReStructure Mix using the guitar break in several places to bring this one to mind again. I have added some new percussion to make it sound off even more so. A trip back to the early 80s when disco once again morphed into a new exciting phase. |
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Do You Wanna Lover - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hotbox Hotbox is a 80s street-beat project from Jon Morales, Mary Berry and Rick Tarbox. The early 80s was another experimental period for dance music as the beat took on many drop kicks to move into a whole new realm of energy. New York street beat is a style created by breaking up the beats into a rhythmic stomp. Morphed from the scratching techniques used by innovative producers and DJs. “Do You Wanna Lover” is a track from Hotbox released in 1983 which uses this technique to its extreme where a whole new arena called Latin freestyle took off in Miami. Many bands like The System are in the same genre and sound. I have taken the 12” of “Do You Wanna Lover” using the “club”, “beats” and “dub” to recreate a “Latin” lover with a touch of disco classic pieces from Voyage. This ReStructure Mix drags out the percussion from Hotbox’s fierce layout and takes it into a new desire for that dance floor energy of the early 80s. |
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Crazy Family - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jock Hattle Jock Hattle is a disco project from producer and singer Alberto Carpani (also known as A.C. One and Albert One) – his work helped to bring Italo-disco to the front lines in the early 80s. Jock Hattle is a studio band which he performed in 1983 along with producers Miki Chieregato, Roberto Turatti and Giuseppe Mincioni. “Crazy Family” is their first single – an electronic and fierce disco track. It pours out a factory of rolling keyboards and makes its way into one of the most memorable of the time period for Italo-disco. The odd vocal and number-chants are unique and quite interesting as silly as they may sound. I have taken the 12” of “Crazy Family” – using the “Yes No Family” side which is the roaring instrumental to create this new ReStructure Mix. I have edited the pieces of the solid synth tracks and added a new arrangement and feel to the fantastic dance number. Another salute to the Italo-disco 80s movement and the power it created. |
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