 |
||||
|
||||
 |
||||
 |
|
• I Took His Money - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hott City
Hott City is a disco project from producers Jeffrey Parsons and
Jeffrey Steinberg - who also created the project Cut Glass (“Without
Your Love). Their album “Ain’t Love Grand” from 1979 is the process
of disco music throughout the seventies and maturing into
arrangements which were more electronic enhanced. The vocalists on
“I Took His Money” are Mildred Vaney and Ortheia Barnes who also
created a stir as Cut Glass. The hard edged theme here where
desperation leads to a sexual act for finance is played out here
with the direct and effectiveness in the sound of this piece. It is
a part of the now classic project which makes the 70s complete
before passing into the 80s dance scene. |
 |
|
• Gimme The Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kinky Go
Kinky Go is an Italian dance project from the late 80’s - produced
by Danilo Bastoni, Danilo Bastoni and Gianni Salvatori/ Their 1986
track “Gimme The Love” is a retro take on the Bronski Beat high
energy sound and vocal delivery. It is as moody and somewhat odd in
its delivery yet it plays out well in the high energy realm. The
electronic arrangement is a full orchestral like edge that peaks and
then winds down into a hypnotic new age feel. The energy is full of
what the 80’s were all about and this one made a huge mark for those
clubs who continued to celebrate the high energy sound of dance
music. |
 |
|
• You Feel My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Evans and Fisher
Evans and Fisher are an Italian house/dance duo who moved onto the
scene in the late 80’s and created a blend of heavy synthesizers and
deep house-like grooves. “You Feel My Love” is their 1989 release
which moves erratic with its key-riffs which pull off that energetic
layer of high energy. The vocals are presented in an over anxious
delivery where a love interest becomes insistent. There are moments
in the song where those swirling electronic strings bring us back to
the disco era and then pull us right back into the 80s high energy
feel. |
 |
|
• Better Be Good To Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tina Turner
Tina Turner is a rock/pop/dance icon who created a much loved stage
presence in several returns to the music industry. Her biggest
success was 1984 and her project “Private Dancer” which created a
new excitement among new fans of the time period. “Better Be Good To
Me” is a single from this album which became an iconic track for her
longevity and rock edged vocals. The song demands a given on both
sides and with her energy and ferocious approach this one is a
classic on her side. It became one of the big singles from the
project and also a huge hit on many dance floors. |
 |
|
• Touch - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Secession
Secession is Peter Thomson, Jack Ross, Jim Ross and Carole L.
Branston - a Scottish synth-pop band formed in the mid-80s. Their
dance floor track “Touch” from 1984 is an electronic piece which has
always given me the impression these players were working on a New
Order sound for the time period. Their layering of sounds, off-beat
melodies and new wave vocals give off a flair which became a target
for many dance bands. “Touch” is a moody and longing track which
emphasizes the absence of a lover and the feelings that are
unfavorable. The production from John Rocca works up into a mild
crescendo of exploding keyboard notes and winding sequencers. One of
the hardcore dance palace pieces of the time and a definite edge on
the 80s electronic dance movement |
 |
|
• Miss Chatelaine - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - k.d. Lang
k.d. Lang is a Canadian country/pop singer and songwriter who became
one of the familiar voices of the late 80’s and early 90’s, The
single “Miss Chatelaine” from 1992 is a sleek and Parisian feel
number which gives k.d. many opportunities to accentuate her unique
vocal style and execution. It is one of her most memorable and
continues to create a flair for the dance floor even today. The
track was produced by k.d., Ben Mink and Greg Penny and This one is
a swirling song which brings to mind a comfort for the inner soul
and more movement for the body and is one of my favorite early
morning pieces of the time period. |
 |
|
• Hang On In There Baby - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Alton McClain and Johnny Bristol
Alton McClain is one of the unforgettable artists of the late 70’s -
along with Destiny they created hits like “99 ½” and “It Must Be
Love”. Johnny Bristol became a part of The Motown Family and
developed a powerful place for himself in the early 70’s with his
big 1974 hit “Hang On In There Baby” which is revived here as a duet
from Alton McClain and Destiny’s project “More Of You” - produced by
Frank E. Wilson and John Footman. This spectacle of a “cover” is one
of the jewels of soul and disco music in its blending of energy and
emotion. Both Johnny and Alton work their own sound into a very
beautiful number here. |
 |
|
• Jeopardy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Greg Kihn Band
Greg Kihn Band is a 70’s group whose 1983 track “Jeopardy” gave them
a #2 spots on the Billboard 100 chart. The song is a funky groove
with the band feeding into the possibility of an affair about to
end. An 80’s feel all together in the powerful crossover feel of
rhythm guitars and igniting choruses. The fantastic approach at the
dance market was a huge movement from many rock and pop groups and
the outcome in the best is a single like this. |
 |
|
• Bula Bula - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Praga Khan
Praga Khan is Maurice Joseph Francois Engelen - a Belgium producer
who worked on several New Beat projects during the late 80’s and
early 90’s. Some of his most memorable were Lords Of Acid and Jade 4
U - it was a new style of music created with the heavy electronic
feel dominating the arrangements. “Bula Bula” is a 1989 single with
a house touch used among the samples of the rock n’ roll classic
“Wully Bully” by Sam and The Sham which was released in 1964 and
also percussion pieces from Issac Hayes “Theme from Shaft” from
1971. The outrageous bass elements bounce back and forth like a
beach ball creating a rhythmic edge for this piece. It is one of the
early New Beat/Belgium tracks which helped to make the genre one of
the successful alternative dance sounds of the period. |
 |
|
• High Society - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Norma Jean
Norma Jean is a disco/soul vocalist who is also known as one of the
members of Chic. Her solo career began in 1978 with her self-titled
project which included the hit singles “Saturday” and “Sorcerer” -
both produced by Bernard Edwards and Nile Rogers. “High Society” is
a single released in 1979 and again has the deep bass guitar magic
of Chic and the classic edge of the feat to make it to the top of
success. The riff of the song is the chorus which flows like a magic
proverb taking us into the groove that Edwards/Rogers so
magnificently worked. The string section are the disco sweeping
effects that made the dance floor sway and move throughout the 70’s.
A great track and also one of my favorites in this genre. |
 |
|
• Breakin'...There's No Stopping Us - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ollie and Jerry
Ollie and Jerry are Jerry Knight and Ollie Brown - a duo who have
both performed as artists and produced many artists. Their
contribution to the soundtrack for the 1984 street-dance film
“Breakin’” is the main theme “Breakin’...There’s No Stopping Us” and
was written and produced by both. This inspiring piece is a beat-box
driven track which bumps and pounds in and out of every chorus. It
is a positive feel which gives off the 80’s challenges which became
the spotlight for many dance featured films. Production is a full on
electronic arrangement with the soulful vocals of both Ollie and
Jerry lending their efforts to spread a positive vibe at the
dancefloor. |
 |
|
• Lay It On The Line - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Elaine Charles
Elaine Charles is a high energy artist from Canada founded by Louis
Toteda and her 1987 single “Lay It On The Line” being one of her big
dance floor hits. The track was produced by Teneen Ali and was mixed
down by The Golden Boys using the sample riffs to emphasize its
power. The song is an ultimatum drawn by our heroine who knows
something is going on behind the scenes with her relationship and
she wants to know now. It is a fast moving piece that never gives up
from start to finish and one of the crossover tracks of the time
from Canadian label to US. |
 |
|
• Blade Runner - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Remake
Remake is a techno dance project from Adriano Dodici, Alex Neri,
Marco Baroni and Mr. Muzak - and also a full dedication to the
trancescene of the early 90’s. Their 1992 release “Blade Runner” is
a dance interpretation of the Vangelis soundtrack to the sci-fi epic
by the same name. This single has echoes of the 70’s electronic age
ignited by Giorgio Moroder with moments where his “Chase” comes to
mind. There is a unique outline where the recognizable melody from
the film becomes the touch of what is needed to make this one work.
There are several sequencers which plot out the rhythm and pull this
one in and out of segments into breaks. |
 |
|
• War Boys - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Annabella
Annabella is Annabella Lwin - and also the lead vocalist in the 80s
band Bow-Wow-Wow (“I Want Candy”). Her solo career began in 1986
with the release of her project titled “Fever” - produced by John
Robe, The System, Jim Lee, Greg Walsh, and Zeus B. Held. “War Boys”
is the first single release from the album and is a mixture of
street beat and alternative rock. The story here are the fallen boys
who never make it to love in their attempts and even though failure
comes they continue to fight for it. Annabella uses a child-like
voice to relay this lesson and also moves closely to the electronic
and alternative mix. Lots of sound symbolism passes through every
once in a bit along with John Robe’s heavy bass sequencers which
bring back reminiscent of Shannon. |
 |
|
• Visitors - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Koto
Koto is Anfrando Maiola composing and arranging and produced by
Stefano Cundari. This Italian dance project is one of the classic
pieces of music from 1985 and many keyboard riffs make up each of
Koto’a creations. “Visitors” is a mind bending instrumental which
seems to outline a close look at those mysterious flying ships from
far away. The mood of this one is eerie yet uplifting. The full-on
electronic production works like magic here as the fingers move up
and out to place us right there in the eyes of our “visitors”. |
 |
|
• I Was Born To Love You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Freddie Mercury
Freddie Mercury began his solo career in 1985 with his project “Mr.
Bad Guy” which was self-produced. At the time Freddie was known to
believe that people wanted to dance and his dedication came by
creating a project with dance tracks. “I Was Born To Love” is a
crescendo of romance in a love song and glares over the dance floor
like the finale of an opera. It is quite the dramatic feel of a love
which needs to be amplified. Freddie’s vocals work well over the
electronic base of this track and flows as lovely as his voice ever
could. There are moments where fireworks could have been ignited and
where the drama hits the bell at the lop of the tower. |
 |
|
• Cream - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Prince
Prince has been a gift to music fans everywhere. His compositions
are teasing, invoking and enticing - as is his 1991 release titled
“Cream”. The track starts off as a rolling tribute to the 60’s
psychedelic rock scene and then converts itself into a bustin’ out
piece. The guitars as usual keep Prince at bay as he loses his
excitement throughout the song. It is one of the sexiest recordings
and displays once again how this man was more than a master with
music. |
 |
|
• Saving Myself (For The One That I Love) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Oh Romeo
Oh Romeo is a high energy ensemble featuring Tammy Quinn and Bobby
Orlando. The group was another powerhouse session featured on
Bobby’s “O” Label. Their seventh release from 1985 is “Saving Myself
(For The One That I Love)” another simple and direct track which
features Bobby’s magic in the touch of electronic hand-clap patterns
(reminiscent of “Bang A Gong” by Witch Queen). The essence of high
energy flows like a split dam here with a fast paced sequencer
booming out the bass and Orlando’s classic “strike” samples. It is
that wall of dance music the dance floor clamored for during the
80’s. A No-Nonsense Approach! |
 |
|
• There's No Me Without You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Len Boone
Len Boone is a singer and songwriter who has written songs for Bay
City Rollers, Maxine Nightingale, and Michael Zager. In 1979 he
released the single “There’s No Me Without You” - arranged by Gene
Page and produced by Roger Watson. This release at the peak of the
disco era closely follows the pop essence of disco music. Utilizing
the percussion and bass as a foundation for the arrangement. This
single is accompanied by Holly Sherwood on vocals and plays out as a
romantic duet. The high peak strings bring this one into disco
heaven for those who can’t get enough. |
 |
|
• Yo-Yo - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Plaza
Plaza is a Belgium band featuring Patrick Van Assche, Sandra De
Maayer and Tineke Honoré - and produced by Fonny De Wulf. The stance
made here was the birth of the ensemble of bands emulating this
outline. In the 90’s tracks like “Another Night” and “Mr. Vain” were
imagined with the same ammunition. Upbeat and appealing. “Yo-Yo” is
Plaza’s 1989 single which has a simple riff which plays out to the
hilt here with the bounce and energy that high energy music was all
about. The electronic production plays out like a video game theme
with more of a dance floor flavor. |
 |
|
• Ou Est Le Soleil - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paul McCartney
Paul McCartney teamed up with producers Trevor Horn, Stephen Lipson
and Shep Pettibone to dive into the underground sound of house music
in 1989. This electronic track plays with deep bass and plenty of
the ricocheting effects that bring back the early 80’s experimental
period where bands like Art Of Noise weaved a new path. Paul works
his end with a French vocal asking where is the “sun”? It is an
abstract piece which displays Pettibones mixing genius along with
Lipson and Horn’s never ending creative edge. |
 |
|
• Exalt-Exalt - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Azoto
Azoto is an Italian disco project created by producer/arranger Celso
Valli. “Disco Fizz” is the title of their 1979 album which features
many noteworthy hits including “Anytime Or Place” and “San
Salvador”. The production is a full on disco ensemble with Valli’s
touch of electronics which bring out the end of the 70’s disco sound
with a force. “Exalt-Exalt” is a track from the project which is
quite mystical in its own sound. The robotic sequencers pound out
the rhythm while an operatic chorus delivers the outline of the
celebration here. It is one of the best works of Celso Valli and
displays a time where American disco has ceased to flourish and the
Italians help to keep it alive throughout the 80’s. |
 |
|
• Meeting In The Ladies Room - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Klymaxx
Klymaxx is Bernadette Cooper, Cheryl Cooley, Joyce "Fenderella"
Irby, Lorena Shelby, Lynn Malsby, Rayn Jackson, and Robbin Grider.
This ensemble of ladies were one of the mainline funk groups of the
mid-80’’s. Their 1984 hit “Meeting In The Ladies Room” is one of the
surface tracks which outline what these ladies are all about. The
funky beat tracks combine street-beat and electronic funk
masterfully. The song outlines the problems with ladies keeping
their men underwraps in a club full of adoring women. It is played
out in a comical sense which gives the song its lasting feel and
with the playout of rhythm it still hits the target. Produced by Bo
Watson and Vincent Calloway. |
 |
|
• U.F.O. Love Encounter - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Range
Range is an Italo-disco project from Paul Mazzolini (aka Gazebo) and
Natasha Maimone. Their 1981 single “Give Me” featured a B-side
titled “U.F.O. Love Encounter” which is the focus of this
ReStructure Mix. The track has some of the same funky guitar work
and galaxy-like keyboard work which centers on two aliens meeting
for the first time and planning a rendezvous. The piece has some
great keyboard riffs and bass effects and gives off a nice aura of
disco magic. Although this is the flip side I always loved hearing
the space-theme take off. |
 |
|
• Steppin' Out - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Joe Jackson
Joe Jackson is a British musician who released his project titled
“Night and Day” in 1982 along with the single “Steppin’ Out”. The
single was a bi success with its fast paced bass sequencer leading
the nightlife fantasy and how much we long for it. One of the bg
crossover songs of its time as it fit into the pop-nu wave
categories as well as the adult contemporary with its striking piano
crescendos. A great 80’s song to reminisce on the flow of pop music
and how various influences continues to bring on new sounds. |
 |
|
• All Systems Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Donna Summer took her voice to the limits of success throughout the
70’s which led eventually to her search for the layers below the
“Queen Of Disco”. Her project titled “All Systems Go” from 1987 was
a mixture of synth-pop tracks and also a few adult contemporary
pieces where she uses the magic of her voice to introduce us to more
of her undying talents. The title track, “All Systems Go” is a track
that she co-wrote with Munich musician Harold Faltermeyer (“Axel
“F”) and he also produced. The song is a fantasy number using the
love experience as a trip to the stars. Donna delivers this
experience once again in her powerful yet smooth delivery and then
opens the portal with her convincing excitement throughout each
chorus. It is one of my favorite 80’s tracks from Donna’s
repertoire. |
 |
|
• Disco Panther - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cassandra
Cassandra (Roberto Maurizio Coatti) is a transgender Italian actress
and singer who released the single “Disco Panther” in 1978 -
produced by Alan Taylor and arranged by Celso Valli. This number is
pure camp as it mashes a sexy disco music along with Henry Mancini’s
theme from “The Pink Panther”. The arrangement is all of 1978 with
the fast moving disco bassline and the swirling strings. There are a
few drop ins of the theme from the “panther” which completes the
title and the vocal is very reminiscent of Amanda Lear’s
concoctions. It is sheer fun and camp all along this track and the
disco essence is captured completely. |
 |
|
• I Beg Your Pardon - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kon Kan
Kon Kan is a dance project from DJ Barry Harris who began a dance
track with a mash-up of current vocals along with a classic piece of
country-western (“(I Never Promised You A) Rose Garden)” by Lynn
Anderson. The single was a huge dance floor success and brought upon
their album project titled “Move To Move” in 1989. The clever layout
of the song is one that was innovative for the time and only heard
before in special DJ remix medleys. The 80’s closing was a big
celebration with tracks like this. |
 |
|
• Unison - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Junior
Junior (Norman Washington Giscombe, Jr.) is a soul/funk vocalist
from London who had a big hit in 1981 titled “Mama Used To Say”
which brought his name to the dance floor and DJ booths. His next
single was released in 1983 and was titled “Unison” - produced by
Andy Goldmark and Bruce Roberts. This single was released on the
Casablanca Record and Filmworks label. A more subtle early morning
sound on this track which contains some wonderful keyboard riffs
which play out as a mellow strike yet resonate for seconds
throughout the song. It is one of the tracks which always brings to
my mind more of an afterhours feel. |
 |
|
• I've Just Begun To Love You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dynasty
Dynasty is a disco/funk group featuring Kevin Spencer, Leon
Sylvers, Linda Carriere, Nidra Beard, Wardell Potts and William
Shelby. The project was founded by Leon Sylvers (of The Sylvers) and
Dick Griffey (Solar Records). “I’ve Just Begun To Love You” is a
single from their 1980 album “Adventures In The Land Of Music” and
contains the sound which refines the post disco era with a new brand
of funk. The bass guitar pieces are kickin’ throughout this track
and the wonderful harmonies make the lyrics last longer. The success
of this track gave way to the Solar Records dance formula which
lasted throughout the late 80’s under several artists. |
 |
|
• Is This Love? - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jesse Lee Davis
Jesse Lee Davis is a Eurodance artist who began recording in the
early 90’s and his big single “Is This Love” from 1992 is his most
memorable - produced by Arn Schlürmann and Tom Gee. This fast paced
love song is the question at the start of a romance where
uncertainty is evident. Jesse delivers a powerful vocal which gives
us segments of his talent in phrasing and also his yearning in this
romance. The arrangement takes on a rave-like feel with some
pounding of those odd-notes that make out the left field sound. The
power edge of this track are the melodic verses which meet at the
powerful chorus which pleads very much with an emotional tact. |
 |
|
• (Shake, Shake, Shake) Shake Your Booty - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - K.C. and The Sunshine Band
K.C. and The Sunshine Band are a 70’s disco band who created The
Miami Sound. Led by Harry Wayne Casey and Richard Finch this group
brought the sound of disco music to life. Their 1976 album titled
“Part 3” contained one of their biggest hits - ”(Shake, Shake,
Shake) Shake Your Booty” which is a simple rhythmic piece with the
earliest of the disco songs which evoked one to let loose on the
dance floor. The horns have always been the element of the Miami
edge which blasts over and over creating a continuous hypnotic
appeal. The 70’s may not have been the disco era if not for a group
like K.C. and The Sunshine band who helped to bring those initial
dancers onto the secret of disco music. |
 |
|
• Let Me Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ron Matlock
Ron Matlock is a soul artist and musician whose work includes
working with Keith Barrow, Shirley Caesar, Rick James, Eddie
Kendricks, Bobby Taylor and Norman Whitfield/ His solo album titled
“Love City” from 1979 contains his single “Let Me Dance” - produced
by Michael Stoakes. The track is a slick disco number which has a
debonair vocal by Matlock and several riffs that play out soulfully
and with a disco shine. It is the piece which would keep dancers out
for one more spin. Ron delivers a performance here that is displayed
wonderfully in the soul means and with the disco genes. |
 |
|
• The Rhythm Of The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Corona
Corona is a Eurodance artist whom entered clubs in 1993 with her big
hit, “Rhythm Of The Night” - produced by Roberto Arduini and Checco.
This fast paced energetic track became an instant classic following
and closing the big techno-Eurodance period of the 90’s. It features
a chorus riff which seems to glorify the nightlife in a mysterious
and exciting way. Along with Corona’s flowing vocals and taking this
one onto the top level for dance floor energy. It is now classic
which defies the placement of the memory of a time when dancing was
the release we all took. |
 |
|
• Touch Me (All Night Long) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cathy Dennis
Cathy Dennis is a British singer/producer who released her first
album titled “Move To This” in 1990. “Touch Me (All Night Long)” is
the first successful single which is a tribute to the original from
1984 by Wish featuring Fonda Rae on vocals. Cathy made her own
layout featuring new verses and borrowing the chorus. This low bass
house track made the 90’s induction into a full-on house music scene
that it made both radio play and club play. The execution here is
simple and drawn out – what makes it irresistible are Cathy’s sweet
and sexy vocals which once again fit the mold for the perfect club
diva. |
 |
|
• Eye In The Sky - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Alan Parsons Project
The Alan Parsons Project is a British rock studio project featuring
Alan Parsons, David Paton and Eric Woolfson. "Eye In The Sky" is
from their 1982 album by the same name. The song is quite beautiful
and obsessive at the same time. A love song which solidifies a
romance as usual and how one is more aware of the other's presence
and absence. The rhythm track is a wonderful guitar build arpeggio
which helps to weave a mystery regarding the watchful eye which
knows all. |
 |
|
• Rhythm Is A Dancer- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - SNAP!
SNAP! Is Eurodance group created by Michael Münzing and Luca
Anzilotti. Their club popularity began following their first big
release, “The Power” from 1989. “Rhythm Is A Dancer” is their 1992
single - produced by Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti. This track
emphasized the early 90’s house movement where clubs clamored for
the heavy beats and bass thumping which created many big hits both
radio and club play. “Rhythm Is A Dancer” is an anthem-like number
which fires out several riffs which seem to catch fire as they play.
There are slight techno nuances in this arrangement and help to make
this one a memorable piece which still ignites in all the right
places. |
 |
|
• Let Me Be Your Wonder Lover - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sandy Steele
Sandy Steele is a disco project from Canadian disco producer Jerry
Cucuzzella who gave us numerous projects from Nightlife Unlimited,
Suzy Q and Nancy Martinez. “Let Me Be Your Wonder Lover” is the
B-side to the 1983 release of “Mind Your Own Business”. One of the
many Canadian disco tracks which helped to keep dance floors moving
following the late 70’s fade from major labels. The underground feel
of this Sandy Steele single has the feel of an Adam Ant disco track
with the percolating effects accenting the downbeats and the
handclaps reinvigorating a 50’s edge. It has one of the catchiest
choruses which is why is has remained a classic among the hardcore
jocks who dedicated themselves to the new disco sound which would
soon be high energy. |
 |
|
• Conquest Of The Stars - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Space Project
Space Project is a Canadian disco ensemble produced by Dominic
Sciscente and Michel Daigle. This early disco album from 1978
features the European disco edge with a complete orchestra along
with the bass guitars and percussion guiding the crescendos.
“Conquest Of The Stars” is the opening piece and sounds reminiscent
of a “Star Wars” theme with a disco beat. The arrangements on this
project are quite impressive where each of the four tracks have a
unique galactic theme and sound. One of the pieces which cross over
between the pop-edge of dance music meets soundtrack composition. |
 |
|
• Eastern Trip - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Voyage
Voyage is a Euro-disco project from Marc Chantereau, Pierre-Alain
Dahan, Slim Pezin and Roger Tokarz. Their first album began a disco
adventure of a trip around the globe. The main track was always an
anthem as the ‘voyage’ begins and from thereon we are immersed in
traditional and eclectic musical pieces from various parts of the
world. “Eastern Trip” is a track from the 1978 project titled “Fly
Away” and focuses on the Eastern countries and a rhythms and sounds
that are recognizable. One of the few disco tracks with a sitar
which works very well. |
 |
|
• I Feel Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Dream Girls
The Dream Girls are Adrienne Loehry, Hannah Jones and Jackie Rawe –
produced by Gary Miller, Graham Willcocks and Martyn Norris. This
Almighty Records release on another cover of the Donna
Summer/Giorgio Moroder disco classic, “I Feel Love” is a celebration
of the new age of disco during its release. The sequencers and
keyboards lightly emulate the original patterns that made this song
a turning point in dance music history. Vocals are light and sweet
in this remake and give off a sense of dedication to the classic.
One of the early 90’s pieces which belong to the long list of covers
from the label – but makes its way for attention since the focus is
in all good energy. |
 |
|
• Mr. Rhythm - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - King Sporty
King Sporty is a reggae artist and musician who began his recording
career in 1976. “Mr. Rhythm” is a track from his project by the same
titled released in 1977 – produced by George "Chocolate" Perry and
King Sporty. The single is full of percussion and his style of vocal
arrangements which layout the ground work for a celebration. The
piece features a rolling sequencer which gives it a mid-70s disco
feel with all of the focus on that Saturday peak hour play. Released
on the T.K. Disco label and is now an underground classic. |
 |
|
• From Here To Eternity - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paul Parker
Paul Parker is an artist whose name is spotlighted over and over for
his hi-NRG releases in the 80’s and also the inception of his dance
music career working with Patrick Cowley and as a part of his vocal
ensemble. “From Here To Eternity” is Paul’s 1991 cover of Giorgio
Moroder s electronic disco classic. He works with producer and
musician, Man Parrish in this 90’s take on the incredible song and
the pairing in great with both vocalist and producer as Paul’s voice
creates the mystery and galactic romance as in the original. One of
the 90’s covers that are very well worth moving to again! |
 |
|
• Street Fever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tasha Thomas
Tasha Thomas is a singer from the disco era and made her mark with
one album – the singles: “Shoot Me (With Your Love)”, “Midnight
Rendezvous”, “Hot Buttered Boogie” and “Street Fever”. From 1979
this lady held one of the clubs big floor movers which was her first
single, “Shoot Me (With Your Love)” and yet the third single “Street
Fever” made the crowds sweat all over again. It was Tasha’s enticing
and predominant vocals which took each song and created her own
outline in a diva format. “Street Fever” plays out a jazz revival
and seems to give Tasha room to spread her talent across the track.
Personally one of my 70’s favorites. |
 |
|
• Robert Di Nero's Waiting - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bananarama
Bananarama are Keren Woodward, Sarah Dallin and Siobhan Fahey – an
80’s female trio who lasted through 2022. The faces have changed
several sessions but the “purrfect” sweetness and sound has always
been there. “Robert Di Nero’s Waiting” is a track from their 1984
self-titled project – produced by Tony Swain and Steve Jolley. A
song directed at the Italian actor and the awe and safety he gives
the ladies on a night where the night is suspicious and unfriendly.
The buildup of the track is simple dance floor formula however for
these ladies it always resonates beautifully. |
 |
|
• I Know - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - New Atlantic
New Atlantic is Cameron Saunders and Richard Lloyd – a rave band who
released their big club track, “I Know” in 1991. The ambient/techno
piece utilizes vocals from Candi Staton’s “You Got The Love” for the
message entwined with the segments of hypnotic techno arrangement.
It is one of the most recognizable tracks from this period of club
music and also hails thanks to the power of Staton’s powerful vocal
samples. |
 |
|
• Midnight Energy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mantus
Mantus is a disco group consisting of Billy Amendola, Frank
DeCrescenzo, Jimmy Maer and Kenny Bee. One of the initial disco
productions to highlight the breakdown of congas and bongos in the
dance mix leading to a new dance era. “Midnight Energy” is the title
cut from their 1979 project produced by Will Crittendon. The track
is an infectious piece which outlines the disco era and its hold on
those who caught ‘night fever’ with all the energy and excitement.
It has the boys serenading us with several moments where this piece
sounds like an early disco anthem. A nice arrangement and break make
this one a classic in its own right. |
 |
|
• Sadie (She Smokes) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Joe Bataan
Joe Bataan is a musician from New York who began his recording
career in the late 60’s. His music eventually leads him into the
disco era where he released three dance projects on Salsoul Records.
“Sadie (She Smokes)” comes from his 1980 project titled “Mestizo” –
produced by him. The track features Jocelyn Brown on lead vocals
taking us into the world of this siren that seems to capture the
men’s attention when she moves. It is a last disco edge track from
the 80’s with plenty of the syndrums and energy. Along with the
powerful vocal from Jocelyn it is one of the underground favorites
from the Salsoul label. |
 |
|
• Getaway - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Earth, Wind and Fire
Earth Wind and Fire are the pinnacle of the bridge between soul,
funk and jazz music during the mid-70’s. Their projects are some of
the best of the seventies and where music was headed. “Getaway”
comes from their 1976 project titled “Spirit” – produced by Charles
Stepney and Maurice White. This tale is an escape from the pressures
of the time existing between two lovers or even the world’s
optimists to move onto a more relaxed state of mind. It has the most
powerful horn section in any soul track which has reached pop
status. The energy of Earth Wind and Fire is captured here and is
most appreciated with the vibrancy and excitement of the
arrangement. |
 |
|
• Touch The Radio Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Language
Language is an 80’s synth-pop band who released their project titled
“Alphabet City” in 1984 – produced by Alan Shacklock. The first
single from the album is “Touch The Radio Dance” which plays out
like a pinball machine constantly popping its metal balls in and out
of segments. It is more of an alternate sound for the time period
and blends in a few strange female portions which add a strange
mystique. The track did well in alternative clubs and those who
celebrated that after-hours playlist where anything could happen. |
 |
|
• Two Tribes - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Frankie Goes To Hollywood
Frankie Goes To Hollywood are William Holly Johnson, Paul
Rutherford, Brian Nash, Peter Gill and Mark O'Toole – an ensemble
compiled by producer Trevor Horn (Buggles, Art Of Noise). An 80’s
answer to Village People with a wide world appeal focused on world
peace and sex. “Two Tribes” is a single from their “Welcome To The
Pleasuredome” album from 1984. This track is a graphic view of the
world pushed to the brink of atomic weapons due to the inability to
find alternate solutions. The song creates the scenario of just how
primitive the concept of war works with humanity. A percussion
driven base delivers an arrangement introducing the time zones of
war and its negative impact on the planet. One of the big 80’s
pieces which once again keep the pure disco edge with a new feel. |
 |
|
• You're So Romantic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sheryl Lee Ralph
Sheryl Lee Ralph is a singer/actress who also a part of the original
“Dreamgirls” Broadway cast. Her voice is a delicate sound which
delivers a nice direction and soulfulness. “You’re So Romantic” is
her second solo single from 1984 and her album “In The Evening”
produced by Trevor Lawrence. The track is a “romantic” piece paying
tribute to the love of her life and the energy which it delivers. It
is a basic dance track which follows in the mode which her first
single lead us. It is her vocal which makes the icing on this cake. |
 |
|
• Lay All Your Love On Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Poison No. 9
Poison No. 9 is a UK electronic/high energy project from producers
John Hamilton and Paul Mex released in 1986 their cover of ABBA’s
big dance floor hit from 1981, “Lay All Your Love On Me”. This
production is a stripped bare sound with echoes of distant cowbells
and the roar of symphonic samples. The vocal is a left field sound
which works very well with the cold and barren sound of the
arrangement. The first of the covers of the classic leads the way in
its original execution and also in the energy that it exudes from
start to finish. |
 |
|
• (I Need A) Working Girl - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Johnny Lovesin
Johnny Lovesin is a Canadian rock artist who released his project
“Rough Side Of Town” in 1983 – produced by George Semkiw. The single
“(I Need A) Working Girl” was a big push in a market which was
shifting towards a synth-pop audience with Lovesin’s guitar flare.
The track is simple to move to since it rushes in like a roaring
wall of deep synthesizers leading the way. It is one of the 80’s
markers on experimental play and execution. The riffs are non-stop
in the 12” version which plays out anything but gentle. |
 |
|
• I Got The Message - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Men Without Hats
Men Without Hats are Ivan Doroschuk, Colin Doroschuk, Jeremie
Arrobas, Stefan Doroschuk and Roman Martyn. Their first project from
1982 titled “The Rhythm Of Youth” contained their big dance floor
hit “The Safety Dance” which is also a track which defines the
creative period of the 80’s music movement. “I Got The Message” is
the second single from the album which is a pulsating bass track
with more of their unique vocal style and delivery. The exercise
which this band gives has always been the high energy approach where
riffs make the solid foundation for a dance track. In “I Got The
Message” the essence of the band and their sound rings true. |
 |
|
• Secret Rendezvous - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Karyn White
Karyn White is a soul/funk vocalist who began her solo career in the
late 80’s with her self-titled project produced by Babyface and L.A.
Reid. “Secret Rendezvous” is the second single release from the
project which did quite well on radio play as well as club rotation.
The track is a funky beats venture into a fantasy where two lovers
plan their evening getaway. Karyn does well with her high end
painting the words onto this canvas and also initiated a style which
was both sensual and woman-powered. The song always did well for me
during early evening sets and during its release the peak funk hour. |
 |
|
• Thank You For Being A Friend - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Golden Girls
Golden Girls is a high energy project from Canada with producers
Michael Shell and Vince Degiorgio at the helm. This cover of the
80’s television show “The Golden Girls” works magically with the
pumping bass sequencers pounding out gratitude. The low key vocal
also gives to the sound which gives the Andrew Gold song a nice
vibrancy. The breaks consist of Patrick Cowley’s “Megatron Man”
drums and give the tail end of the dance version a nice tie in. One
of the few television show dance covers which place itself in the
correct mold. |
 |
|
• Break Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Charade featuring Norma Lewis
Charade is a high energy project from Geoff Rivell and Fred Bolero –
and featured on the UK label Passion Records. This production is the
early 80’s return to disco music with dramatic flair done in an
electronic arena. The power behind many of this sound is the most
incredible wall of sound in the 80’s. “Break Me” is their second
release from 1984 and has that sweeping orchestra edge along with
the heavy beats and rhythmic percussion. Norma Lewis leads this
fantastic song about a romance which seems to take it all in keeping
the flame alive and does it with her best. This is perhaps one of
her most powerful vocals on a recording. High energy is given it
right here and so are dancers. |
 |
|
• Beverly - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fonzi Thornton
Fonzi Thornton is a voice that may be familiar within many dance
classics including B.B. and Q. Band, Chic, Change and backing for
Aretha Franklin and Luther Vandross. His part as a session vocalist
leads to a well-deserved solo career. His 1983 project titled “The
Leader” had a big backing including Kashif, Bernard Edwards and Nile
Rogers arranging and production including Michael H. Brauer, Robert
Wright and Fonzi Thornton. “Beverly” is the first single from this
project and contains the Kashif magic from start to finish. His
touch always sprinkled magic over the groove enhancing with vibrancy
new to the 80’s. It was a lustrous time for electronic music and
funk to work together. The track “Beverly” tells the love story of a
convincing dedication that has never been in the past. It is truly a
great moment for Fonzi to display his vocal talent and also lay down
a delivery which was a big edge in the 80’s dance scene. |
 |
|
• Dancer '93 - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Seventies Fashion
Seventies Fashion is a 1993 Italian production and cover of the Gino
Soccio disco classic, “Dancer” from 1979. This various mix
compilation of house, techno and tribal pieces takes elements of the
original vocal and pieces it with new drum and keyboard production
in a fantastic way. This mix by Sasha is one of the most exciting of
the disco covers as it makes use of the early techno influence and
creation by Soccio and shapes it into a whole new vehicle without
much of notice. It was a great way of homage to Gino Soccio’s genius
as well as his contributions to dance music. |
 |
|
• Everybody's Free - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rozalla
Rozalla is a singer from the 90’s whose big techno-rave track,
“Everybody’s Free” became an immediate anthem. The production was a
light flowing edge of techno sequencers with another light dash of
rave elements. Produced by Nigel Swanston and Tim Cox this piece was
a staple in most clubs of the time. Rozalla also made her big debut
even though her solo recording career began in the mid-80’s as this
was the vehicle which best suited her energy and club identity. |
 |
|
• Invisible - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Alison Moyet
Alison Moyet is one of the talents from the 80’s whom moved
synth-pop music into a new direction. Her work with Vince Clark and
his group Yazoo added a depth to electronic dance music which
brought a soul to the robotic sequencers and keyboards. Alison
became a solo career in 1984 with her project titled “Alf” –
containing the incredible single “Invisible”. This recording is one
of the most powerful of female vocals from the 80’s as Alison pours
so much emotion and pain it is identifiable immediately. The
production by Tony Swain and Steve Jolley emphasis an adult
contemporary feel to 80’s dance music that is classic. “Invisible”
is now a classic and one of Alison’s most powerful recordings. |
 |
|
• Infatuation - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Miss Sage
Miss Sage is Italian disco project from Alessandro Zanni and is a
1989 single titled “Infatuation”. This fast rolling dance piece is a
Euro-beat styled dance track which has the variations of high energy
music built up throughout the 80’s. Heavy percussion riffs cushion
this one with the bass sequencers following closely behind. Vocals
are sweet and somewhat in the distance but add to the mystique of
what kind of obsession this may be. Released on the Italian dance
label Memory Records and gives the end of the 80’s a reminder of how
hard those dance floors moved throughout their rein. |
 |
|
• Outta Limits - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mission Control
Mission Control is a deep house project from Aldo Hernandez and
Ralph Falcon. An outline of underground themes and releases for the
90’s dance floor. Their 1990 release “Outta Limits” is quite a
trippy number which uses samples from Dr. Timothy Leary’s lecture on
acid – “Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out”. Pieces are placed in a weaving
and hypnotic blend of deep mystical places where your imagination is
more important than your feet. It is one of my favorite after-hours
pieces and gives a descriptive outline on what is to happen in those
early morning hours with hardcore music. |
 |
|
• The American Dream - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Big Smoke
The Big Smoke is a high energy project from Canada and produced by
Daze Washburn and Willi Morrison (THP), Their 1986 single “The
American Dream” is a reflective theme which uses celebrities who
never made it past their fame and in turn the light dimmed before
the dream was complete. The influence of Phil Harding is heard in
the beats and energy within the track it has his signature
throughout the piece in his wonderful way. This one was released
during high energy resurgence and was successful on those dance
floors which continued to supply that nonstop disco edge. |
 |
|
• Show Me Where You're Coming From - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carrie Lucas
Carrie Lucas is a disco singer from the mid-70’s who left behind a
legacy of her energy and soft approach to a high energy situation.
“Show Me Where You’re Coming From” is her 1982 single from her
project titled “Still in Love” – produced by Leon Sylvers III. This
rhythmic funk piece is the sound that Solar Records generated out of
the early 80’s spinning off from the disco era into electronic dance
music. The direction given by Carrie is once again the magic of her
sound which is quite subtle yet so effective. This one was a radio
hit and also made many dance floors regain their footing in the
dance arena for the time once again. |
 |
|
• Move Over Darling - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Linda Taylor
Linda Taylor is one pf UK’s vocalists who worked on projects by
Gonzalez, Art Of Noise and Shakatak. Her sweet and melodic vocals
are the crowning point of her single “Move Over Darling” from 1991 –
produced by Martyn Norris and Richard Cottle. In the disco tradition
this clever cover of Doris Day’s theme song from the 1963 comedy
film (which for you Hollywood buffs – was originally titled
“Something’s Got To Give” and starred Marilyn Monroe). This
irresistible disco version works so well with Linda’s delivery and
energy. It is as exciting as the original by Doris Day. The Almighty
high energy machine is in full force here and delivers a 90’s
classic. |
 |
|
• Legion - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mark Schreeve
Nark Schreeve is a musician from UK who lead the electronic sound in
ambient/space music with his curiosity and cleverness to keyboards
and sequencers. “Legion” is a single from 1985 which he produced and
performed. The sinister overtones are guided by his arrangements
where an ominous wall of darkness awakens to a soft rhythmic loop.
The piece is one of the exciting instrumental tracks from the time
period and gives way to the street beat sound of the early 80’s.
There is also a familiar keyboard riff borrowed from the rap classic
“Plant Rock” which blends into the eeriness of this statement. |
 |
|
• No Use To Borrow - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Blue Moderne
Blue Moderne is a project from producer, Ish Ledesma – who is also
one of the original members of the disco group, Foxy (“Get Off”,
“Hot Number”, “Party Boys”) and also created Company B
(“Fascinated”). His productions throughout the 80’s always built on
a trust of a new and diverse sound and his logical musical genius.
“No Use To Borrow” is a 1988 release under his group Blue Moderne –
which this time around features fabulous vocals from Sandy Barber
(also known as Sandy B.) This track is one that outlines love in
general and not since Diana Ross’ “The Boss” has it outlines more
precisely what incurs. The power of a relationship is basically at
the will of where love will go on its own. So control and
manipulation are best left outside. It is outlined beautifully in a
melodic and hypnotic arrangement along with Sandy’s fantastic vocal. |
 |
|
• Survival - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Machine Orchestra
Machine Orchestra is a project from Chicago artist Peter Black,
Their 1992 single “Survival” is a garage house track that pulls a
notable extreme on the less fortunate fighting to stay alive. This
theme sounds like it would resonate from one of the 80’s dance
flicks where the neighborhood kids are trying to save ‘the center’.
It does contain nice soulful vocal from an uncredited singer who
beats the world into awareness with her power and rage. There were a
few of these songs were the uplifting segments of a house playlist
and made the moment much more exciting. |
 |
|
• I Feel It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Suzie and The Cubans
Suzie and The Cubans are Carlos Berrios, Jürgen S. Korduletsch and
Tuta Aquino – blending freestyle and house music at the end of the
80’s. “I Feel It” is their 1987 release which becomes one of the
underground mixers of the period. The heavy bass and vibes are the
essential vibrancy to this dance number and variations of the groove
in a house manner create an infectious dance track. This one closes
out the house music phenomena by blending in many of the staples of
the underground house scene. |
 |
|
• Trigger Track - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Boytronic
Boytronic is a German synth-pop band from the early 80’s whose music
became recognizable by their sounds and intensity. “Trigger Track”
is a bonus track released in 1984 as the B-side to “Diamonds and
Loving Arms” 12” single – produced by Boogiesound Studio. This piece
is a driving maze of bass sequencers and keyboards riffs that flow
wonderfully into a few verses that are mysterious. The 80’s dance
floor was lost in this flavor of dance music with the new-wave edge
taking its part in the electronic arena of the creative end. This
one screams that fast paced edge with full-force intensity. |
 |
|
• Venus - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bananarama
Bananarama are Keren Woodward, Sarah Dalli and Siobhan Fahey – a
trio formed in the early 80’s and became a favorite among dance
floors. Their light hearted and sometime kooky mannerisms gave the
girls a deserving titled as they were. “Venus” is their cover of
Shocking Blue’s 1967 classic. The production by
Stock/Aitken/Waterman is the classic thumping beats and hardcore
percussion layers – a sound which was successful among many of their
projects. This fast paced and energetic remake is a classic since
its release thanks to the girls and their gorgeous images and also
the arrangement which swallows the song whole in a wonderful way. |
 |
|
• Forever Came Today - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jackson Five
The Jackson Five are Motown’s crowning achievement in displaying
talent and promise of soul music. Their impact was a big success in
bringing young and related performers upfront and making them stars.
“Forever Came Today” is one of the tracks which plays out in a
serenade of dance-fusion for the time and today stands as powerful
to hear Michael Jackson’s incredible voice once again fit into the
perfect realm. It is from their 1975 project titled “Moving
Violation” and was produced by Brian Holland. It is a beautiful love
song where the title is the magic and rest is pure residue. The
arrangement was done by Arthur Wright and is an early sign of the
disco arrangement where the groove pops in and out of existence
without ever leaving. |
 |
|
• Is It It? - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Jacques Band
Peter Jacques Band is a disco project from the late 70’s created by
producer Jacques Fred Petrus and arranger/musician Mauro Malavasi.
During the late 70’s the duo also created the New York disco/funk
band Change. This second project from Peter Jacques Band reflects
the smooth sound of a funkier addition to the high energy disco
platform. “Is It It?” is one of the bouncy tunes from the 1980
project “Welcome Back” and is one of the masterful vocal
arrangements which feature Luther Vandross. The song is that
mysterious voice behind a new connection on its validity as a
lasting love and romance. It is playful and fun and brings back that
feeling where love is exciting and rewarding. |
 |
|
• Getting Away With it - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Electronicronic
Electronic is a project from Bernard Sumner (Joy Division, New
Order) and Johnny Marr (The Smiths) from the early 90’s. “Getting
Away With It” is their first single from 1989 and holds a mirror to
music created by Pet Shop Boys but with their personal stamp raising
the excitement. This piece is one of the most beautiful of this
genre of post disco done in full on electronic arrangement but
complete with swirling strings and crescendos. Its message is that
knocks on the head and caught in a loop of unsuccessful romantic
situations. It plays out with a touching manner as the beautiful
music seems to drown out the sorrow into a morning dance. One of the
marks on the dance floor of its time and also now an underground
classic. |
 |
|
• Body Mechanic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Quadrant Six
Quadrant Six is John Robie and Kenny Simmons – a street/electro
dance duo who’s 1982 single “Body Mechanic” is the synthesis of 80’s
street beat sound. The track is an energetic break dance and
pop-lock piece which gives a body the makeover it needs to loosen up
and move. The futuristic edge of the track is fun and at the same
time seriously funk driven. This one was from a period when New York
street dance was taking its toll and the grooves represented the
movement as well. |
 |
|
• A Love Supreme - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Will Downing
Will Downing is a soul/house singer and producer. His 1988 single “A
Love Supreme” – produced by Mr. Arthur Maker is heralded as the
perfect house song of its time. The smooth feel of the production
and the powerful lyrics and vocals of Downing are a part of that
success. It was one of the adult contemporary dance tracks which
created a bridge between the dance floor and the power of pop music.
“A Love Supreme” has many wonderful parts which bring the song into
an anthem arena with that deep house feel where the bass becomes the
hypnotic edge. |
 |
|
• New York By Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dennis Parker
Dennis Parker is an actor/singer who released his disco project
titled “Like An Eagle” in 1979 – produced by Jacques Morali (Village
People, The Ritchie Family). His second from the album “New York By
Night” is favorite among those who clamor for that full orchestrated
sound created by Morali within the studio. The track is homage to
the city and a more realistic view of times within it. The rolling
basslines are a club into the obvious movement of disco music from
the end of the seventies onto the 80’s where basslines became more
predominant. “New York By Night” is another masterful piece from
Morali and also gives Parker a nice place to plant his vocal
aspirations. |
 |
|
• It's A Game - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Les McKeown
Les McKeown is a singer who started his career in the 70’s with Bay
City Rollers. Eventually after the split up of the band his solo
career began with a following from not only the BCR but also his
own. “It’s A Game” is a single from 1989 – produced by Dieter Bohlen
(Modern Talking). The track is a situation is a romance where the
love seems hopeless as many fronts are put ahead of the actual love.
It has a nice build to a downward chorus which explains the
relationship failing into silence. The electronic arrangement has a
nice flow along with some clever keyboard work. It is more of a tea
dance piece but worked well with the right audience. |
 |
|
• Anything For Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Reina
Reina (Lori Reina Goldstein) is a club artist from the late 90’s who
made all eyes and ears turn her way with her power diva-esque
vocals. “Anything For Love” is her single from 1999 – produced by
Hex Hector & Mac Quayle. This auto-anthem is a building stance for
the promise of lasting love and breaks it down as Reina delivers an
incredible performance which always reminded me of Mariah Carey.
This one was the dance floor stomper which seemed to be a circuit
party interior. It still has that flavor which lasts and gives
meaning to the artists herself. |
 |
|
• Hopes and Dreams - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Albert One
Albert One (Alberto Carpani) is an Italian disco artist whose
projects were based on his emotional and powerful vocals. “Hopes and
Dreams” is a single from 1987 which he produced and made one of the
most touching of the love anthems from Italy. The rolling bass
sequencers and exuberant keyboards make up the arrangement along
with a delivery from Alberto which touches the soul. It is one of
the finest pieces of dance music from Italy during the period and
always worked for myself during those tea dances or after-hours
dance marathons. |
 |
|
• What You're Missing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - K-klass
K-klass is a project from Andrew Williams and Carl Thomas – molding
house music into icon sounds. “What You’re Missing” is from 1994 and
reeks of the UK house sound which was setting dance floors into a
hard club environment. The energy behind this one exceeds much of
the releases of the time and gives off a resonance of good energy
and love. The lead vocal gives off that unity which house music
created and relayed from the start. |
 |
|
• Body Shake - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - T.C. Curtis
T.C. Curtis is William Alexander Smith – a funk/dance artist who
used a groove to paint his music over and capture all in long play.
“Body Shake” is his single from 1981 and is a disco track which
plays out like a jam session. The keyboards are the elements here
that use the most air and they begin as a tease and lead into an
effective build. The early 80’s were once again an experimental
scene for dance music and this one has the formula as an
instrumental with a disco/funk flare. This single is an early
standard for T.C. Curtis as his work continued throughout the 80’s. |
 |
|
• I Didn't Mean To Turn You On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cherrelle
Cherrelle (Cheryl Ann Norton) is a soul/funk singer from the
mid-80’s and her solo debut produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.
“I Didn’t Mean To Turn You On” is one of 1984’s big dance tracks and
gave Cherrelle a definite audience. The track is a heavy beat and
bass arrangement with many of the samples from the new sound clips
of the period. Although the song plays out in a satirical feel it
has the feel of a message with more meaning thanks to the alternate
take with Jam and Lewis. This number was also covered by rock icon
Robert Palmer the following year in a successful delivery and in his
own style. |
 |
|
• I Can See For Miles - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Navigator
Navigator is a Euro-house project from UK producers Martyn Norris
and Richard Cottle – who cover The Who’s 1967 track “I Can See For
Miles”. Done with a rolling arpeggio of keyboards and thumping house
base where femme fatale takes over is a nice high energy episode.
The airey feel in this one makes one revert back to Eurodisco intro
from groups like Voyage. The power elements in this cover are the
vocal and the breakdowns which come in a moment where a breath can
be taken from the previous build. |
 |
|
• Boogie Business - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lamont Dozier
Lamont Dozier is an artist who also wrote classic Motown songs as
Holland-Dozier-Holland. His solo career as a recording artist began
in 1973 and leads him eventually into the disco era and his talent
went from pop-soul to disco-pop. “Boogie Business” is from the 1978
project “Bittersweet” – produced by Frank Wilson. The disco era was
in full swing and it seemed as every artist or band was contributing
by working their own style or signature into a disco format. “Boogie
Business” is an uplifting piece which a successful club disc
jockey/performer gives us a rap on his venture. The arrangement has
a few segments of that Motown build where a movement transforms us
to a place where memory becomes illusion. Dozier belts out several
wonderful parts which give the song a nice authenticity. |
 |
|
• I Love Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The O'Jays
The O’Jays are a group originally a gospel duo and eventually became
one of the leading 70’s groups with tracks like “I Love Music” from
1975. The project was produced by Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff – the
team which created magic with their touch during the mid-70’s. “I
Love Music” quickly became a soul iconic song and also opened the
doors to the Philly Disco Sound emerging at the time. The beautiful
lyrical production is and wonderful as the vocals in The O’Jays
court. This piece is a landmark in music history and brings us back
to being grateful for what has rolled out with history in music. |
 |
|
• Man From China - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vivabeat
Vivabeat is Alec Murphy, Chris Schendel, Consuelo de Silva, Doug
Orilio, Marina Del Rey, Mick Muhlfriedel, Rob Dean and Terrance
Robay – an electronic new wave dance band from 1980. Their single
“Man From China” from their project titled “Party In The War Zone”
is a single which stood out during its release in 1979. A segue to a
rock edge with new wave fusion began a whole new era of dance music.
“Man From China” was always perplexing piece for me as the hardcore
sequencers and drum beats make up a new feel for its time. The
vocals are a raw and raspy male vocal who announces the theme in a
rock-a-billy delivery and edge. It is a great crossover dance track
which leads the way before its time. |
 |
|
• Open Your Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ceybil Jefferies
Ceybil Jefferies is a house vocalist who had several big club hits
during the early 90’s. Her delicate yet powerful performances gave
the success for many house/dance sets and a few of her tracks were
considered classics shortly following their release. “Open Your
Heart” is from her project titled “Let The Music Take Control” from
1991 and produced by Roland Clark. This beautiful love song is one
of my favorites of that year with its knock down vocal in a lovely
delivery which Ceybil plays out very well. It is a true house music
innovative sound that became one of the outlines for many more
productions during the time period. |
 |
|
• Hey! D.J. - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The World Famous Supreme Team
The World Famous Supreme Team is Larry Price and Ronald Larkins Jr.
and their track “Hey! D.J.” from 1984 is follow up from their
appearance on Malcom McLaren’s “Buffalo Gals” from 1980. This set
the stage for their DJ skills and their talent for rapping/rhyming.
It is a salute to radio, club disc jockeys and the multicultural
music which is a part of our world. The masterful piano riffs give
this piece a kind of elegance that slips into a rap joint here and
there. It is one of the memorable early rap songs that came from the
New York scene and makes it seem quite easy with the Supreme Team
and their execution. |
 |
|
• Dirty Job - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sweet Connection
Sweet Connection is Billie Joe and Sue Dixey – a project from
producer Reinhard Frantz. Their high energy sound was recognized in
the late 80’s by dance floors that were not done with the rolling
electronic feel. “Dirty Job” is their single from 1988 and has a
defiant theme of a relationship on the edge of destruction and the
plea to stop its end. The fierce keyboards have a wicked sound that
resonates with the ladies warning. It is one of their tracks which
give us the full on underground high energy arrangement where a
break becomes part of another world. |
 |
|
Roberta Flack is a performer whom always leaves an impression in
one’s mind through her music. It is a powerful gift which she has
displayed over and over throughout her career. ”Don't Make Me Wait
Too Long” is from her 1980 project with Donny Hathaway – who Donny
can be heard as the lead vocalist on the theme from the 70’s
television show “Maude”. The collaboration works like magic
throughout the project and gives us songs as this. It is a beautiful
and hopeful love song which plays out in every note of the meaning
of love. It has always been one of my favorite dance-love songs and
has always given me thanks for Roberta’s talent. |
 |
|
• Dream On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - RAH Band
RAH Band is Barry De Souza, Liz Hewson, Ray Warleigh and Richard
Hewson – a British studio group whose instrumental and fusion of
various styles created a unique sound. “Dream On” is a single from
their self-titled project from 1981. The emphasis of this track is a
light flair of jazz meets international flare. It flows in and out
of rhythmic sectors which make it quite contagious and satisfying.
The keyboards break into a nice crescendo throughout the arrangement
and give way to a light lounge like samba piece. It is a great
example of how this band are remembered from the 80’s as being one
who were overlooked for their creativity. |
 |
|
• The Big Bang - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fantasy Ten
Fantasy Ten is a disco project from producer Cay Hume along with
Holly Post and Ronald David-Ohlmeier. A disco track outlining “the
big bang” from 1987 is an infectious track which immolates a voice
from the heavens giving a directive and scientific exploration of
the birth of our galaxy and space. The eerie feel is effective and
outlines a few short segments which feel like apostles are giving
thanks to the cosmic beginning of time. A fantasy-like approach
which works well with the heavy bass and haunting and mystical edge.
This one follows the sound which was created in the late 80’s by
groups like Off (“Electrical Salsa”) and Silicon Dream (“Marcello
The Mastroianni”) – a nice venture into a new dance adventure. |
 |
|
• Eveerybody Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ta Mara and The Seen
Ta Mara and The Seen is a band compiled by Jesse Johnson (formerly
of Prince’s sound Morris Day and The Time) whose sound pulls on the
strings of the 80’s dance movement. Much of the instrumentation
emulates that edge that Prince created in “Purple Rain” and is
successful here. “Everybody Dance” is the single released in 1985
and worked its way onto playlists in clubs around the world giving
Ta Mara and The Seen their time. The groove of this one has an
infectious pulse as Ta Mara’s sweet yet driving vocal gives the
directive of the dance floor. It is one of those unforgettable 80’s
numbers thanks to the simple yet effective chorus. |
 |
|
• The Rock - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tramaine
Tramaine Hawkins is a gospel singer whose solo career had a lasting
effect in the late 80’s with several of her inspirational songs.
“The Rock” is from her 1987 project titled “Freedom” – produced by
Tramaine. Her previous dance floor track titled “Fall Down” was the
start of this power message she delivers. “The Rock” has the same
effect yet pulls together more of a groove which give the message an
ethereal sound. The song was a great weapon for me during early
morning sets or early in the evening when the floor was to come
alive. |
 |
|
• We Got The Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lindy Layton
Lindy Layton is a vocalist who founded Beats International and
appeared in in many productions also for her solo career. “We Got
The Love” is her 1992 single produced by Steve Mac and also written
by high energy vocalist, Tracy Ackerman of Astaire and Q-Feel. The
uplifting love song is a satisfying pop-house piece which is a
celebratory song and dance track. The sweetness exudes from each
vibe of this production and the 60’s summer of love always comes to
my mind. Lindy’s vocals play well with the track that also features
Ackerman on the backing chorus. |
 |
|
• Ride On Time - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Black Box
Black Box is an Italo-house project from Daniele Davoli, Mirko
Limoni and Valerio Semplici. Their big album in 1989 was titled
“Dreamland” and featured the track “Ride On Time” – which was an
instant success and fit the new mold of house music. The song was
comprised of vocals from Loleatta Holloway’s “Love Sensation”
(produced by Dan Hartman) and using phrases and pieces completed
what was to become an innovative and duplicated style. The power
house yet simplistic approach brought the dance floor a new sound
and excitement as can be experienced with dance music throughout
time. |
 |
|
• Let It Whip - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dazz Band
Dazz Band is a funk band from the late 70’s with a big dance floor
hit in 1982 titled “Let It Whip” – produced by Reggie Andrews. A
beat and rhythm approach which instantly became a favorite among
clubs. Its rhythm track is the foundation of 80’s funk captured in a
monumental state as this love song lures its capture into a dancing
frenzy with breakdowns and slick claps tracks as the aphrodisiac. It
was one of the pieces that kept my floor moving that year and now
brings back that packed to the edges of the dance floor memory. |
 |
|
• Ash 48 - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amii Stewart
Amii Stewart’s huge disco hit from 1978 is a cover of Eddie Floyd’s
1966 soul track “Knock On Wood” – produced by Barry Lang. In 1985 a
supplemental remix was released titled “Ash 48” produced by Barry
Lang and Dave Hewson. This piece is a tribute to the technology
which initially created the disco masterpiece that took dance floors
buy storm in its release. The term “Ash” meaning after the fire a
flame still burns from the ashes. This is exactly what we are
dealing with here. The focus of taking the original concept deeper
into an underground feel. “Ash 48” was originally billed by Ash 48 –
but without Amii this track could not be as hot as it still lies.
There are additional vocals added by Sharon Benson to fill in the
new gap of this disco classic. |
 |
|
• Fine Time - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - New Order
New Order is Bernard Sumner, Gillian Gilbert, Peter Hook, Phil
Cunningham, Stephen Morris and Tom Chapman – an early 80’s
experimental band utilizing a heavy industrial feel. Their music has
always been unique in theme and execution and has given dance floors
a new awakening in movement “Fine Time” is a single from their 1988
project titled “Technique” – produced by New Order. This track is
peculiar in many ways including its use of acid house, new beat and
hard industrial segments. The piece is another opportunity to feel
the freedom that New Order uses in its creative and recording
process. A unique 12” featuring various sounds for this song was one
that was exciting for its time. |
 |
|
• Hit That Perfect Beat - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bronski Beat
Bronski Beat is one of the innovative synth-pop groups of their time
and along with the vocals of Jimmy Sommerville the hits were only
expected. The members also included Steve Bronski and Larry
Steinbachek – both who recently left us with their fabulous music.
With the departure of Jimmy Sommerville as he joined The Communards
it was unclear whether or not the group could continue – however
they did. “Hit That Perfect Beat” from 1985 was a new energy and
powerhouse sound for the band and was produced by Adams Williams.
This this in one of the most memorable of the energy dance tracks of
that year and demonstrated the talent these boys were given. It was
one song which always ended up on my playlists and packed the dance
floor. |
 |
|
• Everybody Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sister Sledge
Sister Sledge are Debbie Sledge Young, Joni Sledge, Kathy Sledge,
Kim Sledge and Tanya Tiet. One of the early dedicated groups to
disco music and known for their many dance floor hits. “Everybody
Dance” was originally a track recorded by Chic in 1977 and since
Nile Rogers and Bernard Edwards had lit the fire under these ladies
career in the late 70’s a cover featuring their vocals in 1999 from
a compilation titled “The Very Best Of Chic And Sister Sledge” –
featuring current club/house remixes of their music. Sister Sledge
takes this anthem and runs with it. With music that Edwards and
Rogers were producing together it is no wonder these songs are a
welcome sight in any context. |
 |
|
• Change - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Barry White
Barry White is one of the moving forces in disco music during the
seventies. His compositions and productions have always been
celebrated on dance floors to the highest respect. “Change” is from
his 1982 project by the same title and gives his brass hitting in a
mercifulness manner. His forthcoming sight in the 80’s is a dance
floor mover and gives us another chance to hear this master mature
to another period of dance music. The track was co-produced by Jack
Perry. |
 |
|
• F.L.M. - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mel and Kim
Mel and Kim is Melanie Susan Appleby and Kim Appleby who became one
of the successful dance acts from production team, Stock, Aiken and
Waterman during the late 80’s. “F.L.M.” is from their 1987 project
and became their anthem in many clubs. The track is a celebration of
life and the lighter side of the nightlife. The noticeable
production from SAW works well with the harmonies these two ladies
produce in energy and execution. Many clubs adapted this one as
their close to the groove piece and had a very successful run along
with several other singles from their project. |
 |
|
• It's A Disco Night (Rock Don't Stop) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Isley Brothers
The Isley Brothers are a soul ensemble who began their careers in
the late 50’s. The ensemble includes Chris Jasper, Ernie Isley,
Marvin Isley, O'Kelly Isley, Ronald Isley and Rudolph Isley. The
group survived throughout the 60s and onto the millennium recording
soul, disco and r&b. “It’s A Disco Night (Rock Don’t Stop)” is the
single from 1979 and the project titled “Winner Takes All” –
produced by Chris Jasper. This is their disco entry during the
height of disco music’s craze and their soul and funk touch makes
this one an old school classic. Very driving bass and percussion
give the disco lights their purpose and the funky groove the
dancer’s enthusiasm. |
 |
|
• Give Me Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Phil Trim
Phil Trim is a singer from Trinidad who began his recording career
in 1978 and released 5 projects. His single from 1977 “Give Me Your
Love” was featured on the TK Disco label and was produced by Ramon
Arcusa. This is disco bubble show complete with the chorus girls
introducing our man at every verse. This is the disco camp which
emerged during a period where disco music was finding itself labeled
as funk, soul and at times pop. This love song has the strings that
ignite the mirror balls and the bass lines which fuse the hustle.
This disco record is one of the sheer pieces from the time period
where the sound was being created as well as being showcased. |
 |
|
• Mirage - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Scotch
Scotch is an Italian disco project from Fabio Margutti, Franz
Felleti, Franz Rome, Manlio Cangelli and Vince Lancini. Their music
has always been an uplifting electronic production with a riff which
sticks to the dance floor. “Mirage” is their single from 1986 –
produced by Zambelli Bros. This piece is a romantic interlude where
clarity becomes the focus on the romance being started on the right
feet. The lyrical keyboards are enticing for this style of Italian
dance music and always make the moment become more celebratory. It
is one of the more sensational singles and still holds a nice feel
even today. |
 |
|
• Tina Cherry - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Georgio
Georgio (Georgio Allentini) is musician/artist who released three
projects starting in the late 80’s. His first success was a single
titled “Tina Cherry” from 1987 and was formulated in the deep house
sound which was a popular mix during this period. The heavy bass
sequencers are the power behind this slick track which caught on
fast in clubs. It was the smooth variations of the segments of
keyboard riffs which made this number a dance floor hit. |
 |
|
• Take Me To The Sun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paradise Orchestra
Bruce Johnston is a vocalist, keyboardist, guitarist, bassist,
drummer, composer and producer who joined The Beach Boys in 1964.
His disco track “Pipeline” from 1977as produced by Gary Usher and is
one of the innovative instrumentals of the time. He uses drums and
percussion in heavy layers to create a piece which also includes a
vocal which resembles a Beach Boys number. This one has the elements
of the disco era which the full on string elements and breakdowns.
The drum tracks and breaks are interesting and hold a rhythmic edge
that is powerful and memorable. |
 |
|
• Hot Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Big Ben Tribe
Bruce Johnston is a vocalist, keyboardist, guitarist, bassist,
drummer, composer and producer who joined The Beach Boys in 1964.
His disco track “Pipeline” from 1977as produced by Gary Usher and is
one of the innovative instrumentals of the time. He uses drums and
percussion in heavy layers to create a piece which also includes a
vocal which resembles a Beach Boys number. This one has the elements
of the disco era which the full on string elements and breakdowns.
The drum tracks and breaks are interesting and hold a rhythmic edge
that is powerful and memorable. |
 |
|
• Pipeline - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bruce Johnston
Bruce Johnston is a vocalist, keyboardist, guitarist, bassist,
drummer, composer and producer who joined The Beach Boys in 1964.
His disco track “Pipeline” from 1977as produced by Gary Usher and is
one of the innovative instrumentals of the time. He uses drums and
percussion in heavy layers to create a piece which also includes a
vocal which resembles a Beach Boys number. This one has the elements
of the disco era which the full on string elements and breakdowns.
The drum tracks and breaks are interesting and hold a rhythmic edge
that is powerful and memorable. |
 |
|
• Bitter Moon - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Candyland
Candyland is Colin Payne, David Ayers, Derrick McKenzie, Diid Osman
and Kenediid Osman – a 90’s psychedelic rock/synth band. Their 1992
project titled “Suck It And See” contained the single “Bitter Moon”
which follows in their deep edge of moody esthetics and in the
heartbreak mode here. The song has an eerie feel and somewhat
mysterious and tense energy. It follows the early morning formula
which takes the extreme left field and shifts it into full gear.
Vocals work as the tremble throughout the song in a careless sound.
The track was produced by Chris Parry. |
 |
|
• The Sun Always Shines On T.V. - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - a-ha
a-ha is a Norwegian band consisting of Magne Furuholmen, Morten
Harket and Paul Waaktaar-Savoy. This band became an instant 80’s
staple following their 1984 single “Take On Me”. Their project
titled “Hunting High and Low” – produced by Tony Mansfield contained
their follow up single from 1985 titled “The Sun Always Shines On
T.V.”. This track is an anthem in a synth-pop arrangement and a
melody that touches the soul. It faired very well on dance floors
and within the 80’s realm is a classic. |
 |
|
• Say! - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cleo
Cleo is an Italian disco project from Fabrizio Segalini and features
Angela Parisi on vocals. This 1988 release has a nice production
with some keyboards riffs which play into the groove nicely. “Say!”
is more of a rhythmic piece and fares some nice lines which are
performed in an uplifting fashion with the lower bpm energy. This
one is a nice production which plays out more against the rattling
percussion which supplies a foundation for our diva giving her
despair in a romantic situation. |
 |
|
• C'mon And Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Liquid Gold
Liquid Gold is a disco band featuring Ellie Hope, Franco Morruzzi,
Ray Knott and Wally Rothe – produced by Adrian Baker. The group had
a huge disco hit with “My Baby’s Baby” from their self-titled 1979
project. It was the perfect mixture of pop and disco for the period.
With the lead vocals of Ellie Hope the band had an unforgettable
impact and eventually in the 80’s she pursed a solo career with
several dance tracks which did very well. “C’mon And Dance” is
another track from their album with more of a laid back and
jam-session feel. It uses the group as an ad-lib to the musical
interludes which call into the arena the dancers – a formula which
was very much what disco music was about. |
 |
|
• Stop That Man! - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Glamorama
Glamorama is a high-energy/techno project from UK producers Graham
Willcocks, Martyn Norris and Richard Cottle – also responsible for
bringing us Obsession, Royal T, Rapport, Abracadabra and Shaft.
Featured on the legendary Almighty Record label and making a mark in
the early 90’s shift from high energy to techno and eventually rave.
The three ingredients are blended well with “Stop That Man!” from
1993 –and along with high energy diva Earlene Bentley this one has
an aura of attitude and sophistication. The rolling bass lines are
the main aspect of this number and work well with the rave and
exotic keyboard riffs which plant themselves firmly into this great
number. |
 |
|
• Woman Ad Lib - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - L.A.X.
L.A.X. is a disco/funk band lead by producer Ralph Benatar and
members are Galen Senogles, Geoffrey Leib, Kenny Lee Lewis, Larry
Lingle, Mike Lingle and Roy Galloway. Their 1979 self-titled project
contains their first dance floor hit “Dancing At The Disco” which
was welcome for their funk style. “Woman Ad Lib” is another cut from
album which received play and is a more disco driven piece in a more
club outline. The play is dedicated to the female vocal provided by
Laura Lucerno and Roy Galloway in a phrase feeding play. The track
is much like a Euro-disco track through the feel of this one and
also contains the groups classic funk edge. |
 |
|
• No More Words - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Berl
Berlin is Terri Nunn, John Crawford and David Diamond – an 80’s band
who fused electronics with nu-wave guitars. Their dance hits are a
staple for the period as much of their elements are great riffs
which give the period its feel/ “No More Words” is from their 1984
project titled “Love Life” produced by Giorgio Moroder and Ritchie
Zitto. This percolating dance track is a Berlin outline along with a
convincing vocal from Terri Nunn. The echoes of Moroder’s 80’s
venture are here best as he makes a nice canvas for the band to work
over. |
 |
|
• Change Of Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Change
Change is a disco/funk ensemble founded in the early 80’s by
producer Jacques Fred Petrus and created a sound with a group of
well experienced disco, soul and r&b singers that exploded from
their first hit “A Lover’s Holiday” from 1980. “Change Of Heart” is
their single from their 1984 project produced by the legendary Jimmy
Jam and Terry Lewis. The track gives lead singer Deborah Cooper an
opportunity to blend into the situation which falls short of a love
affair to a relationship. There are the levels of vocal segments
that play out wonderfully in this number and make it one of the
great funk/dance tracks from this ensemble. |
 |
|
• Old Wine In New Bottles - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Silver Convention
Silver Convention are the statement from producers Michael Kunze and
Sylvester Levay and contributed much of the disco appeal of the
mid-70’s to their music. “Old Wine In New Bottles” is from their
1976 project titled “Get Up And Boogie” where the title track was on
to become a disco classic. Their sound was the emphasis on how chic
disco music was becoming and where it was going. The heavy strings
and funky band-like rhythms are the canvas works for the style of
Silver Convention. The vocals were Linda G. Thompson, Penny McLean
and Ramona Wulf who gave the face of the band a sexy and somewhat
playful edge. |
 |
|
• Heart Of Glass - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Associates
The Associates are Billy MacKenzie and Alan Rankine - a synth-pop
group from Scotland. Their 1988 album “The Glamour Chase” featured
their cover of Blondie’s disco hit “Heart Of Glass” and was produced
by Chris Hughes and Ross Cullum. This being one of the rekindles of
a classic which lays out another segment of ingenuity. Their
electronic take on the Blondie number with their vision and sound. A
mildly played arrangement utilizes the ideas of a crescendo placed
within the build of the song without exhausting it means. One of the
great covers in general where the concept is close to the original
yet reaching in another direction. |
 |
|
• Don't Leave Me This Way - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Communards
The Communards are Jimmy Somerville (Bronski Beat) and Richard Coles
- a duo who released a few covers of disco classics in the 80’s high
energy mode. Their 1986 cover of Thelma Houston’s big disco hit
“Don’t Leave Me This Way” is one of the most incredible undertakings
in the dance arena. Produced by Mike Thorne this piece is a hard
hitting transformation of the soulful disco classic to the
incredible performance by Jimmy Sommerville who takes each segment
of the track and plays out the drama in his own style. This one was
huge on dance floors and reminded those who know the song how
wonderful the song was and those new listeners an advantage to
experience such a masterful song. |
 |
|
• Don't You Want Me Baby - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mandy
Mandy (Amanda Louise Smith) is a PWL artist who along with the
assistance of producers Stock, Aitken and Waterman released a few
tracks in their genre of dance music. “Don’t You Want Me Baby” is
Mandy’s cover of Human League’s bit synth-pop hit from 1981 with
more energy and the SAW sound which rolls out like 3 barrels at
once. Mandy’s vocals are faintly distributed throughout rolling bass
sequencers and keyboards and yet the familiar chorus and riffs are
nice to hear in a more energy driven version overall. The one made
its debut in 1988 and did well on several high energy charts and the
clubs which are still clamoring for energy dance music. |
 |
|
• Play That Beat Mr. DJ - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - G.L.O.B.E. and Whiz Kid
G.L.O.B.E. and Whiz Kid are Harold McGuire and John Miller - a duo
forming an early 80’s street beat group and releasing their 1983
single titled, “Play That Beat D.J.”. The early 80’s paved the way
for rap to become an identity which became one of the inspirations
of today's hip-hop genre. Produced by Craig Harris and Tom Silverman
and released on the newly formed Tommy Boy Records, this early piece
of simulated live rap from the deejay booth celebrates the man who
brings it all together night after night - spinning those discs and
keeping us on the floor. There are the scratch techniques which
became an element in dance music and kept the rhythms and grooves
new and fresh throughout the 90’s. A classic among the time period
and one track which gives this genre a push into success. |
 |
|
• Kiss You All Over - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Exile
Exile is a pop/country band from Kentucky whose fame hit in 1978
with their #1 pop hit “Kiss You All Over” – produced by Mike
Chapman. The track is a vocal treat where the layers of male vocals
play out equivalent to a church choir in their crescendo. The song
is one of the easy listening treats which fell close to the disco
category of its time and also still plays out romantically as well.
A 70’s classic which will remain a favorite among many thanks to its
wonderful riffs and vocals. |
 |
|
• Applause - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Angie Gold
Angie Gold is one of the high-energy artists with a voice which
transcends the dance floor. “Applause” is her 1986 release produced
by Nigel Wright and an appropriate song for this fantastic artist.
The song feeds into the realm of needing the audience to have been
satisfied and leaving the air with hands applauding and in turn this
makes all of the work for our singer worth it all. One of the
anthems of the time which has the singer who can bring it to life
the right way. This one is a track which makes a dance floor move
with appreciation as well. |
 |
|
• Living My Own Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Earlene Bentley
Earlene Bentley is one of the high-energy divas from the Ian
Levine/Fiachra Trench music legacy. “Living My Own Life” is
Earlene’s 1984 single and gives us the complete high energy sound in
one defiant message. Although the sound of high energy music of the
time relied on the pumping bass and percussion it was always the
diva which Levine and Trench placed on the track which mattered
most. “Living My Own Life” is an anthem of self-esteem and power
within ones soul and makes this number pound out more on the message
than the orchestra drums. It is the 80’s dance sound which will
forever bring about the feeling of an uplifting moment on the dance
floor. |
 |
|
• Sweet and Low - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Debbie Harry
Debbie Harry is an 80’s icon who covered the music scene in her own
way beginning with her big disco hit from 1978, “Heart Of Glass”.
Although Harry’s voice was appropriate for those new-wave and rock
edged tracks her voice also flowed like a disco chanteuse in a
lovely manner. “Sweet and Low” is a single from her 1989 project
“Def, Dumb and Blonde” – produced by Arthur Baker. The song is a
melodic trip into a love fantasy where no matter what occurs around
it cannot interfere with the lure of this love. It is perhaps one of
the most lyrical since “Heart Of Glass” in a vocal delivery from
Harry. It is now an underground classic and one that should not have
anything shoveled over it. |
 |
|
• Happy Together - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Terms Of Surrender
Terms Of Surrender is a studio group from 1983 and produced by Mark
Berry. “Happy Together” is their beat-box cover of The Turtles 1967
rock classic and down with layers and layers of syndrums and
reverberations. The eerie feel of this cover is enough to place it
in that early morning music/sleaze category that was so alive in the
mid and late 80’s. The vocals are haunting also as they echo
throughout this arrangement and give off a new feel far from the
original. This one was always a favorite of mine since it covers
that morning mood and also transpires a classic into a left field
style and very well. This cut was featured on Disconet’s Volume 5
Program 12 Issue. |
 |
|
• The Disco Spaceship - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laurie Marshall
Laurie Marshall is a disco artist from Canada whose act is quite
unique with the 1977 song, “The Disco Spaceship” – produced by Ralph
Murphy. It is pure camp as Laurie performs the track in a
funky-galactic-drag outline. Complete with a powdered white wig and
alien makeup. It is the formula where the track is as outrageous as
the performer. It works in the deepest sense of disco-camp and
confirms again how the 70’s obsession with space and the universe
played a fantasy in many ways including in this type of dance track.
The simple keyboard tracks are played out in an arrangement which
only allows the song to bring an interesting connection between
spaceships and dance floors. |
 |
|
• It Should Have Been You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gwen Guthrie
Gwen Guthrie is a singer who began as a session singer with notable
projects as Gregg Diamond’s Bionic Boogie debut album. Her talents
as a songwriter also gave her expose with many top pop and soul
artists. “It Should Have Been You” is from her first solo album from
1982 – produced by Sly Dunbar, Robbie Shakespeare and Steven
Stanley. The project gave Gwen a new identity for her unique vocal
and sound. The song focuses around missed opportunities in a
relationship which may have ended too soon as many of the great
elements are wonderful memories and strengths. Gwen performs this as
a simple note to give her presence a relaxed delivery and also a
flow with the funky groove of this music. |
 |
|
• Evergreen - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hazell Dean
Hazell Dean is a British pop singer who became the high energy diva
of the 80’s. “Evergreen” is her cover of Barbra Streisand’s hit from
1976 and in a production from Willi Morrison & Ian Guenther (THP
Orchestra, Sticky Fingers, Duncan Sisters, and Southern Exposure)
brings the ballad on the dance floor with grace and energy. The full
on electronic production is the 80’s standard where beautiful songs
and suggestive orchestral segments met with the new sound of time.
The vocal from Hazell is perhaps the more important areas here as
not any singer recreate a pop hit with such a smooth impact. This is
one of the great moments where the beat and the ballad collide with
great accomplishment. |
 |
|
• Power Of Persuasion - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pointer Sisters
Pointer Sisters are the powerhouse act of the 80’s. Their music
always found a place on dance floors and their energy and lasting
stance. “Power Of Persuasion” is a single from 1988 and was produced
by Jerry Knight and Aaron Zigman. The song was from the film
“Caddyshack II” and plays out as powerful as their 80’s dance hits
but with a bit more of a Euro-house sound. The ladies again tease us
with the promise of something good as long as the answer is “yes”.
This one gives Pointer Sisters another dance track which begins with
excitement and ends in satisfaction. |
 |
|
• In Private - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dusty Springfield
Dusty Springfield returns along with Pet Shop Boys on the B-side of
her album “Reputation” – which features the single “In Private”
released in 1990. A monumental track of lies, cheats and ultimatums
as Dusty pleads with her married love affair to confess what was
really going down. It is one of the Pet Shop Boys most powerful and
emotional trips and along with Dusty taking the blame but not
without justification before the romance and this song ends. A
complete disco symphony guides this one directly into the classic
bins and keeps the rhythm still moving along. |
 |
|
• High On The Boogie - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stargard
Stargard is a disco/funk project from producer Norman Whitfield with
a big 1978 dance floor hit titled “Which Way is Up?” – featured in
the Richard Pryor comedy film. The trio consisted of Debra Anderson,
Janice Williams and Rochelle Runnells and later in 1980 Debra left
the group. “High On The Boogie” is a dance track which follows in
the funky vein which made these ladies the superlative attraction in
the late 80’s. This dance anthem has several juicy riffs and funky
vocal segments where the groove is no longer needed to guide your
hips. The track is from the 1980 album “Back 2 Back” and gives us
again that crossover between funk and disco that is so delicious. |
 |
|
• Be Your Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jesse Johnson Revue
Jesse Johnson (Jesse Woods Johnson) is a guitarist who began with
Morris Day’s The Time band. His solo project titled Jesse Johnson
Revue was in the spotlight thanks to the success of Prince’s “Purple
Rain” and the many projects he accompanied through their starting
period. “Be Your Man” is the single from the project and has that
80’s Prince and The Revolution sound which guides it into a
wonderful place. A love song with several wonderful moments with
keyboards lightening up the space where the heartfelt direction is
given. The track is from the 1985 album by the same name. |
 |
|
• Lost In Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sister Sledge
Sister Sledge are Debbie Sledge Young, Joni Sledge, Kathy Sledge and
Kim Sledge. This ensemble was produced by Chic Organization (Nile
Rogers and Bernard Edwards) during the late 70’s and began a whole
new style for the group and several major hits, including “We Are
Family” and “Reach Your Peak”. Their first album produced by the
Chic-duo was the 1979 project “We Are Family” and along with the
tilted track a few more hits emerged including “Lost in Music” – a
song where music becomes the peak of one’s dream and living an
ordinary life is impossible. It is perhaps the most teasingly dance
track to solidify the urge to keep music as the top priority and
everything else a stepping stone – as worded “lost in music”. |
 |
|
• Baby Dancer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carrara
Carrara (Alberto Carrara) is an Italian artist who released a big
Italian disco hit in 1983 titled, “Disco King”. The track
immediately became one of the uplifting and creative pieces of the
time period. “Baby Dancer” is his 1987 single – produced by Ruggero
Penazzo and arranged by Walter Bassani. Another clever dance piece
with the outline of a love song flowing into a rhythmic edge with
plenty of loveable riffs. One of the 80’s Italian disco favorites
which made the dance floor welcomes a return to the feel-good and
whimsical sound of this countries continuance of disco music during
the 80’s. |
 |
|
• If U Want My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dionne
Dionne (Beryl Dionne Warren) is a club artist recording from the
late 80’s throughout 2009. Her releases always have one common trait
– her beautiful voice and sensual delivery. “If U Want My Love” is
her 1991 release produced by Andrew Komis. This track is presented
in 3 versions in the garage house tradition and along with the
flowing vocal made this one a top 10 hit in my club during its
release. Each segment of the production is stripped raw and pumped
with percussion and bass in that garage flair. With the house era
moving into a more pop realm this is the sound that helped make the
club sound noticeable. |
 |
|
• Stop The Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gregg Diamond's Bionic Boogie
Gregg Diamond gave the 70’s a lesson in funky fantasy. His beautiful
and band influenced recordings gave way to the lush sounds of disco
in an early period. His recordings with Andrea True Connection
(“More, More, More”, “N.Y. You Got Me Dancing”) are the embryo
stages of his talent in creating disco music with his style. “Stop
The Music” is from his first Bionic Boogie project from 1977 and
this session features vocals from Gwen Guthrie and Ullanda
McCullough. The uplifting messages that disco music evoked are felt
in this number and also Diamond’s touch in blending phrases and
musical influences. I always heard his music as a groovy edge with
the disco flare added. |
 |
|
• I've Got Faith In You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cheryl Lynn
Cheryl Lynn is one of the great voices of soul, disco and
inspirational music. There was an impact of her presence in the late
70’s not only with a disco hit but also as a unique voice and
delivery. Her second project titled “In Love” is a session which
gives her pipes range experimental boundaries. Along with producer
Barry Blue does this recording make history as proof to the talent
this woman possesses. “I’ve Got Faith In You” was written by Bobby
Caldwell (“What You Won’t Do For Love”) and is a statement for
Cheryl in more ways than one. The track is worked with a rhythm bass
guitar and opens up many exciting moments for this diva. One of my
many favorites from this project and from the lady herself with a
nice impact delivered with her own style. |
 |
|
• Sweet Talk - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Robin Beck
Robin Beck is a singer from Brooklyn, New York who began her career
as a backing vocalist for Melissa Manchester, Chaka Khan and Leo
Sayer. Her solo career began in 1979 with her project titled “Sweet
Talk” – produced by Kenny Lehman (Lemon, Rhetta Hughes, and
Quinella). The title single was big release during a period where
disco music was reaching the edge of its peak. This track tells the
story of a manipulating lover who takes control with a soft approach
– “sweet talk”. Robin performs the piece soulfully and with much of
her vocal talent as you may hear developed in session recordings.
The song is a favorite among the disco audiophiles who followed the
trajectory of disco music as this piece is much more of a lower bpm
mover. |
 |
|
• Love Has Come Around - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donald Byrd and 125 Street NYC
Donald Byrd and 125th Street NYC is a session featuring Donald Byrd,
Eric Hines, Ronnie Garrett and William Duckett. Their big dance club
hit from 1981 titled “Love Has Come Around” is one of the Paradise
Garage classics and is also assisted by the great Isaac Hayes who
produced. The dreamy funk style piece is one that exudes the early
80’s dance floor with the soulful vocal and chorus along with the
groove that moved those underground clubs non-stop during the
period. This piece can be considered a soul/funk anthem at least –
but when you analyze and repeated listens you can feel it deserves
much more of its own genre. |
 |
|
• Falling In Love Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Technos
The Technos are Bev Sage and Steve Fairnie – an 80’s electronic band
whose presence on the dance floor was unique and shimmering
experience thanks to ingenuity and their approach in general.
“Falling In Love Again” is a cover of the Marlena Dietrich song from
the 1930 film, “The Blue Angel” and their version released in 1985
and produced by Phil Harding. Their energetic take on the vamp song
is one of the most exciting covers and also includes a few
low-samples of the film and also some wonderful riffs. The lead
vocal is played out with total camp as it should be and the rest is
history, |
 |
|
• No More No War - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mirage
Mirage is Donald Todd Canedy who created several Euro-disco singles
during the mid and late 80’s. “No More No War” was released in 1985
and produced by Pepone. This statement on the human battles that our
planet has endured and how there is no longer desired is a strong
theme and works well in the powerful drum tracks and deep bass
synthesizers pumping out the energy. This single is one of the most
exciting club tracks of the period and is a favorite among club
jocks and dance music enthusiasts. The electronic production is
complemented well this hard edged chants and the swirling bridge. |
 |
|
• Let It In (Rock) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Caution
Caution is a disco project from Jorge Barreiro and Roy Bermingham.
This appropriately moving track is homage to the 70’s rock sound
with the distorted guitars pouring out energy during the breaks. The
vocal sounds a bit like “Leather Tuscadaro (Suzy Quatro)” to me –
but works well with the edgy rock sound placed over the disco bass
line and beats. This one may have been the introduction as the early
80’s as it became a more experimental time for dance music. This
single from 1980 is a definite stamp of the time period and a moment
of sheer genius on the Roy B. Record label. |
 |
|
• Shake - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bombers
Bombers is one of the classic disco projects from George Lagios and
Pat Deserio. The galactic themes from album covers to music were
very appropriate during the late 80’s thanks to pop culture. “Shake”
is from the “Bombers 2” album released in 1979 along with their
disco classic “Everybody) Get Dancin’”. The piece is accented
wonderfully with a bass guitar riff that can only come from Buster
Jones who also performs vocals. The hypnotic feel of this classic
disco number is one of the most intriguing and leaves to mind no
question why dance floors went on-and-on during this disco period. |
 |
|
• Excitable - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amazulu
Amazulu is a British reggae ensemble from the mid-80’s featuring
Rose Minor, Annie Ruddock, Clare Kenny, Lesley Beach, Margo Sagov
and Nardo Bailey. Their 1985 single “Excitable” is from the
self-titled album release and was their most successful in this
genre. The steel; drums, horns and lead vocal make this track a nice
celebratory number which always brings good vibes to the heart and
feet to the dance floor. |
 |
|
• Dream Machine - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - ORS
ORS (Orlando Riva Sound) is a German disco project featuring Anthony
Monn, Herbert Ihle, Mario Argandoña, Rainer Pietsch, Sophia Reaney,
Stevie Bi and Wolly Emperhoff. Their project titled “Body To Body”
from 1978 is an experience of the disco sound which emerged into the
late 70’s with all of the fusion along the way including electronic
and funk. “Dream Machine” is a single from the project which is a
musical piece that emanates a galactic feel along with a ghostly
female vocal which welcomes you into the star system. It is one of
the tracks that are the essence of 70’s and makes this time seem as
though it is missing something. |
 |
|
• 8:15 To Nowhere - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vicious Pink
Vicious Pink Is Brian Moss and Josie Warden. Their music during the
mid-80’s helped to bridge a predominant electronic production to a
raw edged style as rock influence. “8:15 To Nowhere” was originally
released as a B-side to their club hit, “Cccan't You See...” and
later remixed and released again in 1988 as a single. The hard
welding keyboards are an edge of high energy and madness with its
devouring sound. The piece is celebrated as a cutting-edge piece and
now displays the band as the stand with the fusion of electronic
music and a hard edge on corners. |
 |
|
• Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pet Shop Boys
MCL is Microchip League who created an electric-dance current in
1987 with their single “New York” produced by Axel Henninger and
Westside. Their project titled “Code Numbers” contained several
genres including industrial and new beat. “Don’t Blame It On The
Samba” is their single from 1990 which has a more commercial edge
and also freestyle beat in place. It is infectious piece that
contains some killer Spanish guitar riffs and a wonderful lead vocal
from Frank S. |
 |
|
• Blame It On The Samba - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - MCL featuring Frank S.
MCL is Microchip League who created an electric-dance current in
1987 with their single “New York” produced by Axel Henninger and
Westside. Their project titled “Code Numbers” contained several
genres including industrial and new beat. “Don’t Blame It On The
Samba” is their single from 1990 which has a more commercial edge
and also freestyle beat in place. It is infectious piece that
contains some killer Spanish guitar riffs and a wonderful lead vocal
from Frank S. |
 |
|
• I'm Not In Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Basscut
Basscut is an electronic dance project from Elisa Burchett and
Heinrich Zwahlen. Using the base of house music this duo creates
infectious dance numbers like “I’m Not In Love” from 1991. The
smooth effect is a bassline driven energy piece with a unique vocal
created as Bassline. The song lead my high energy chart reporting
back in the early 90’s and brought to the dance floor another form
of Euro-house a new sound. The track has many riffs that work in its
favor and a production that is stripped down but working with the
effective pieces necessary. |
 |
|
• Break Away - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Big Pig
Big Pig is an 80’s band from Australia – featuring Sherine, Nick
Disbray, Tony Antoniades, Time Rosewarne, Oleh Witer, Adrian
Scaglione and Neil Baker. Their big song from 1987 is a powerhouse
dance track titled “Break Away” – produced by Nick Launay. This
piece has so many pertinent riffs that it exudes energy and
excitement. A touch of rockabilly meets 80’s dance floor. One of the
big surprises of this year and a definite dance floor packer. |
 |
|
• Without You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Midnight Shift
The Midnight Shift is a dance/disco/high energy project from the UK
including some of the great parts of 80’s dance: Ian Anthony
Stephens, Ian Gant and Robin Wright. Their 1991 single is a cover of
the Harry Nilsson song from 1972 titled “Without You”. This cover
incorporates a riff from the ABBA track “The Winner Takes It All”
and fits too comfortably in this new arrangement. It is a blessing
for the high energy community that this session existed and also for
the remnants of the remakes they have covered it is sheer heaven. |
 |
|
• Still A Thrill - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jody Watley
Jody Watley is an extraordinary talent from the disco era who
transformed herself into a solo-artist in 1987. Her self-titled
project brought the new dance floor of the 80’s its sound and also a
new icon. “Still A Thrill” is a single from this album and was
produced by André Cymone. This sexy and unforgiving piece is a
lasting tribute to the heart and bod feeling which lasts as time
shapes and solidifies this relationship. It truly is the top of the
funk and sensual pop sound and makes it easy for Jody to display
just what this talent is all about. |
 |
|
• Boogiethon - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Biddu and The Orchestra
Biddu (Biddu Appaiah) is a producer, musician and songwriter who
also gave us tracks from Carl Douglas and Tina Charles. His work
with his orchestra brought the track “Booogiethon” from 1977 and
from his project titled “Eastern Man”. This sick and horn driven
piece is a great example of how early disco/dance music was
gathering a fusion of musical styles. This simple chorus piece is
the disco dessert that was served during the mid and onto the disco
peak of 1979. A nice funky rhythm makes this one hard to remain
still and also that chorus is an all-around singer along. |
 |
|
• Somewhere - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vicki Shepard
Vicki Shepard is one of the club divas from the late 80’s. Her
success was achieved by bringing back several club favorites in her
style as well as few new dance floor pieces. “Somewhere” is her
disco cover of the majestic song from “West Side Story” and in
Vicki’s court she introduces it in the same manner – fabulous! Her
dreamy vocals give a mystic and yet energetic twist in this version.
It was produced by David Lawson and displays a wonderful electronic
arrangement which brings the song the power it relays as a dance
floor classic. It has always been a favorite of mine and worked my
dance floor for days during its release. |
 |
|
• Sharpshooter - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Branigan
Laura Branigan is a singer who began her recording career in 1981
and worked many dance floor hits including, “Gloria”, “Solitaire”
and “Self Control”. Her powerful and rock-edged vocals gave her
music the power and emotion needed to relay some intense messages.
“Sharpshooter” is a track released in 1984 on the motion picture
soundtrack of the film, “Body Rock” – it was produced by Jack White
and Robbie Buchanan. Another song where Laura’s brings to the
surface an emotion which introduces the human connection with
sensuality and ease. The track did not have a release as a single so
the best part is that it is a gem for a fan. |
 |
|
• Everybody Move - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cathy Dennis
Cathy Dennis (Catherine Roseanne Dennis) is a singer/songwriter from
England who brought the early 90’s excitement with her many
dance/house releases. “Everybody Move” is from her 1990 project
titled, “Move To This” and was produced by Chic’s Nile Rogers. The
energy in this track is fast and furious as Cathy takes her sweet
yet powerful vocal into the song. It is one of the tracks which
followed many of her pervious including “All Night Long (Touch Me)”
and “Just Another Dream”. This piece makes the start as exciting as
the finish with its antidote for almost everything which was house
music for the period. |
 |
|
• Tell Me All Your Secrets - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nerissa
Nerissa (Nerissa Vitello) is a singer who released several dance
cuts throughout the early 80’s including “Tell Me All Your Secrets”
from 1990. The track was produced by Darrell Lawrence and is
delivered in the deep house “Red Zone” tradition created by David
Morales. The heavy drums and key-riffs are the essential dub-like
energy of the 80’s house period and at this time being fused with
several i9ngredients to keep it rich. The ideal of “Tell Me All Your
Secrets” is an invitation to a relationship where no boundaries are
present. The song has a sensual feel overall thanks the persuasive
vocal by our diva here. One of the great independent dance label
tracks from the period and a definite ear magnet. |
 |
|
• I'm Not Perfect (But I'm Perfect For You) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grace Jones
Grace Jones is the “showgirl” of disco music. Her unique style and
music contributions have never sold her short of fabulous. Her 1986
project titled “Inside Story” is again Ms. Jones being, “Ms. Jones”.
“I’m Not Perfect (But I’m Perfect For You” is the big single and was
co-produced by Chic’s Nile Rogers along with Grace. This one sticks
to Grace as it displays her persona undoubtedly and also carries
through a play with words in many ways as Grace sells her wares once
again. The song became a big club hit made this disco star shine all
over again. |
 |
|
• Once More - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Taffy
Taffy (Katherine Quaye) is a British singer who moved into the
Italian disco arena with a big hit titled, “I Love My Radio
(Midnight Radio)” in 1985. Her presence has always been an exciting
one since most of her music always reflects uplifting themes and
celebratory outlines. “Once More” is her single from 1985 and was
produced by Claudio Cecchetto. This track is an anthem in the works
as she exclaims the excitement to mention her partner and the magic
that he gives. It is a soaring track which always rings out like a
powerhouse when the chorus builds into the finale of raging
keyboards and beautiful rhythmic sounds. |
 |
|
• Nightdrive - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kaotic
Kaotic is a deep house project from Timothy Titsworth – his single
titled “Nightdrive” was released in 1992 on Underground Level
Recordings label. This piece is a rhythmic interlude into a moody
and mystique as it beats out a drum track which grabs your ears and
feet from the start. It is one of the transition pieces I have heard
in many clubs during its release but for me it was always a track
that could start the floor early or end the night. One of the early
90’s deep house/electronic numbers that I was caught from the first
few beats. |
 |
|
• Rich In Paradise - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Honesty 69
Honesty 69 is a German electronic project led by Thomas Gesell and
Willi Grossmann. Their 1989 single “Rich In Paradise” is one of the
Ibiza-esque dance tracks which bring to life the Lil’ Louis track
“French Kiss” along with an outline of their own. Using the
sequencer bass patterns throughout this arrangement make this sexy
record work both as a house and techno number. The sexy infusion of
the female adlibs gives the track its own identity as we are
immersed into a rolling dance experience. This one always fared well
at my club and brought peak hour to a new high, |
 |
|
• I Like It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Players Association
The Players Association is a disco/jazz ensemble who began their
recording career on Vanguard Records in 1977. Their self-titled
album from that year contained their single “I Like It” which is an
early favorite of dance floors and followers. The horn infused track
is one which outlines the rhythm in the club manner of the time and
also gives us a live band feel with its sectional arrangement. One
of the 12” singles of the time which was admired for its early moves
to fuse disco and jazz on a parallel. |
 |
|
• Do It For Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ann Consuelo
Ann Consuelo (Ann Consuelo Del Pilar) is a singer from Guayaquil,
Ecuador and is one of the voices of the early 90’s house movement.
Her club hit, “Do It For Love” was released in 1992 and produced by
Douglas Carr and Nick Nice. A big underground hit as her prior
single “See The Day”. This one has a serious impact with its house
thumping rhythm and the wonderful segments where Ann brings the
lyrics into a playful mode. This one was dance floor success for me
from day on to the many months of programming it following. One of
the big house records that justify the means. |
 |
|
• Super Hero - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Love Drops
Love Drops are Asia Love and Wayne "Smash" Hunter – a house project
from the early 90’s. Their single titled “Super Hero” released in
1992 is a deep house piece which closely resembles the aura of the
group Deee-Lite with a free love and good time feel. The song has
one major factor for its initial success: the kick ass house beat.
Every atop is a mild as a few keyboard segments and a saxophone
break. In this number the real force is the fantastically carefree
vocal from Asia which bounces off the rhythm over and over making
her diva debut an original one. |
 |
|
• Welcome To My Heaven - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kim Martin
Kim Martin is an Italo-house project from Dora Carofiglio, Giuseppe
Nicolosi, Lino Nicolosi & Rossana Nicolosi with Cateno Domenico
Nicolosi. The label offering their projects from Italy was titled
Selector Records and in 1991 released “Welcome To My Heaven” – a
wonderful house number which played out with all of the elements
which house music encompassed throughout the end of the 80’s and on
to the 90’s. This track is a bouncy bass driven number with plenty
of recognizable samples sprinkled throughout the arrangement. Its
uplifting feel gives it the immediate draw into its memorizing
verses and into the organ guided chorus. It is one of the big
underground Italo-house numbers which made it onto hardcore house
playlists. |
 |
|
• Set Me Free - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jaki Graham
Jaki Graham is a British soul artist who arrived on the dance scene
during the early 80’s and made the dance floor move to a synth-pop
sound with a soulful edge. “Set Me Free” is from her 1986 project
titled “Breaking Away” – produced by Derek Bramble. This powerhouse
track has all of the necessary elements and an intro for anyone who
has never heard Jaki release her vocal talents. It tells the story
of a woman caught in a possessive relationship and wants to release
herself from it. The production gives us the UK funk edge with a new
standing diva showing us the rest of the way. |
 |
|
• Uncle Bob's Burly House - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Uncle Bob
Uncle Bob is Philip Kelsey – his project from 1992 is one of the
deep house productions which are progressive and trance-like. The
four cut 12” single gives an individual display of the riffs for
“Uncle Bob’s Burly House” in a club manner. This short excursion
into a realm where voices edge on a sense of hypnotic energy and
some mean dub-like breaks. The essence of this groove is the bass
works which seem to fluctuate throughout each mix. This one was
secret weapon for me when the dance floor was there and ready to go
deeper. |
 |
|
• Love At First Sight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Van McCoy
Van McCoy is the man who ignited the “hustle” craze prior to the
disco explosion of the mid-70’s. His hit single titled, “The Hustle”
from 1975 was a step in the direction from which soul music began to
transition into the disco form. His compositions displayed a lyrical
and arranged musical outline of a simpler and more concise groove
along with the strings and funky guitars. “Love At First Sight” is
from his 1976 project titled, “The Real McCoy” and is a touch of the
disco formula in its pubescent stage. The simple arrangement was
more of the excitement of the dance arena for the time. This one
makes a statement with the lush stings and the breakdowns which
later become the outline for disco music. |
 |
|
• I Feel Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Messiah featuring Precious Wilson
Messiah is a techno-rave project from Ali Ghani and Mark Davies.
Their take on Donna Summer and Giorgio Moroder’s disco classic was
released in 1992 and is focused on the acid-house/techno/rave feel
of dance floors. This powerful and electrifying version sets the
track in a whole new arena along with the vocals performed by
long-time disco artist, Precious Wilson (Eruption). The rolling
sequencers again display the elegant and genius of Moroder and how
this piece of dance music changed the music world. There are builds
throughout this arrangement that bring about a “mosh-pit” energy
since the intent from the original is the excitement. |
 |
|
• You Are My World - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Double You
Double You is a Eurodance group featuring Andrea de Antoni, Franco
Amato and William Naraine. Their cover versions of disco classics
including “We All Need Love”, “Please Don’t Go” and “Who’s Fooling
Who” began a string of dance floor successes for this project. “You
Are My World” is from their first project, “We All Need Love” and is
a Euro-house arrangement with all of the appropriate formula for
1992 during the big club/dance period. It is a solemn love song that
plays out with plenty of emotion in a connection that is strong and
promising. Great vocal work and some of the breakdowns which made
the late 80’s and early 90’s still a great dance period. |
 |
|
• SOS - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - ABBA
ABBA is Agnetha Fältskog, Anni-Frid Lyngstad, Benny Andersson and
Björn Ulvaeus – on of the definitive pop groups of the 70’s and
disco era. Their music is always an experience that is unique in
their power behind the female vocals and the creativity of the male
figures – all which are upfront and effective. “SOS” is their big
hit from 1975 and is ABBA with their entire mite. A song regarding
the fading of a relationship and the plea to restore that once was.
The chorus is an uplifting sound which this band always seems to
pull off in each track. It is the magic of ABBA that brings their
name to the forefront whenever pop or dance music is relayed. |
 |
|
• Hazme Sonar - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Morenas
Morenas is an Italian house project from Andrea Gemolotto, Angelino
Albanese, Claudio Collino, Massimino Lippoli and Riccardo Persi. One
of the very successful underground tracks featuring the Latin edge
and may have begun a series of releases emulating this arrangement.
The smooth complexity of this piece is as easy as a dancer sway with
its groove. A nice series of breaks and segments that work together
as a nice musical number with only a few adlibs from our lead
vocalist. |
 |
|
• Streetwise - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - B-Art
B-Art is a Belgium Beat group featuring David Morley, Errol Jones,
Jean-Pierre De Vylder, Jeroen Dejonckheere, Renaat Vandepapeliere,
and Rony Brack. Their 1989 single “Streetwise” produced by Renaat
Vandepapeliere is a house track which they delivered with a slick
arrangement and lead vocal from Jean-Pierre De Vylder. A nice piece
of evening candy outlining the nightlife and its energy and
excitement. This song was released on the new-beat label R & S
Records from Belgium and gives this band a crossover capability in
this effort. A big dance floor packer for me. |
 |
|
• Sex Or Sex - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cristiana
Cristiana is an Italian disco project from producers Tano Lanza and
Mario Percali – featured on the Ram Production label in 1987. One of
the last true Italian disco productions which center on the heavy
percussion edge. The intended vocal approach is light and frail as
it expresses a sensual desire. The foundation of this track is the
keyboard riffs that represent a sweetness and somewhat innocence for
this request. With the play on words the two choices are the same:
sex or sex? The heavy bongo and percussion tracks are a dub-like
feel from the original and make this piece a nice mix in and mix out
weapon. |
 |
|
• Papillon (Hot Butterfly) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chaka Khan
Chaka Khan is The Queen Of Funk Music – her influence began in the
early 70’s along with Rufas and many new barriers were opened by
this diva. Her 1980 project titled “Naughty” – produced by Arif
Mardin contained a cover of Gregg Diamond’s “Hot Butterfly” which
was from the Bionic Boogie project by the same name and featured the
fantastic, Luther Vandross on lead vocals. This song is one which
brings on many emotions as the love relationship comes to an end for
two and is poetic in many of its phrases. This was another early
moment for Chaka to make a song her own – and she does. A soaring
performance is more than teasing and full of emotion. A memorable
moment for Chaka as she makes this classic her own which she
completes in her own essence. |
 |
|
• Everything Changes - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kathy Troccoli
Kathy Troccoli is an American singer who began her recording career
in the early 80’s and delivered a dance floor piece titled
“Everything Changes” in 1991 and was produced by Ric Wake. This
magic track has the melody of a Stock Aitken and Waterman song from
the iconic dance floor mode they created. The overall effect is
Kathy’s moving vocal which brings on the excitement of how love
affects two beginning a new life together. It is one of the
anthem-like pieces which made the 90’s house period work the under
beats here. One of my favorite vocal sensibilities and a dance floor
packer for me during peak hour. |
 |
|
• Take My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lickwid Lips
Lickwid Lips is a house ensemble from England and is produced by
Steve Davis and Lee Tucker. Their single “Take My Love” released in
1992 is a complete analogy of the club sound movement from the end
of the 80’s onto the hardcore 90’s where a fusion of trance, techno
and house music was a featured sound in many productions. This track
features erotic vocals from Chantzi D. rolls out like an ambient ear
orgasm. Many of its elements are deep house infused and the 3 12”
mixes are each unique in their own essence. This one was a feature
peak number for me and always had the floor packed with adventurous
movers. |
 |
|
• We Connect - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stacy Q
Stacy Q is an 80’s pop-dance singer who made 1986 a memorable dance
floor moment with her hit, “Two Of Hearts” – it was the return of
the high energy bass synthesizers rolling out the energy. Stacy Q
made herself an iconic figure with her sweet 80’s gal look and feel
as well as the savory vocals. “We Connect” was her follow-up release
which made club playlists in the familiar sound of both tracks. The
rolling edge of both tracks work well as Stacy makes her sensual and
girlish delivery play out for her well. |
 |
|
• Medley: "Times Out Of Time / Don't Start Givin' Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mike Francis
Mike Francis is an Italian singer who began his recording career in
1984 and leaves behind him in his passing in 2009 a string of
wonderful ballads and rhythmic pieces. This ReStructure Mix focuses
on two of Mike’s beautiful numbers: “Times Out Of Time” and “Don’t
Start Givin’ Up” from 1988 – both tracks are a bit more adult
contemporary outlined and have a wonderful resonance in both vocals
and arrangements. The 12” single “Times Out Of Time” featured the
bonus track “Don’t Start Givin’ Up” – and are produced by Mike
Francis and Davide Romani (of Peter Jacques’ Change). Two hidden
gems that always weaved magic for me in early evening or after-hours
sets. |
 |
|
• A Night To Remember - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shalamar
Shalamar is Howard Hewett, Jeffrey Daniel and Jody Watley. One of
the original disco groups from the mid-70’s building a connection to
funk and soul among the disco scene. “A Night To Remember” is from
their 1982 project titled “Friends” – produced by Leon F. Sylvers,
III. One of the iconic tracks once again as the harmonies and slick
funk production pulls the most for the dance floor. The romantic
edge of this one is irresistible and one which always brought a
crowd to the dance floor to help celebrate their own nights. |
 |
|
• Hands Down - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dan Hartman
Dan Hartman is a longtime songwriter, musician and singer who began
with the Edgar Winter Group and a recognizable 70’s hit “Free Ride”
from 1972. The disco era brought immediate success to his feel-good
songwriting with his 1978 hit “Instant Replay” which was the height
of the disco phenomena and an iconic track to outline the period.
His next project featured “Hands Down” released in 1979 and sounded
much like the executives over at his label demanded a sound-alike
hit. Although it is a long song in the same sense it does however
have its own energy and excitement. This is a production that
utilized all elements which made disco music crossover and take
notice among those who were ready to dance. |
 |
|
• Better Stop - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chilly
Chilly is a German disco group featuring Oscar Pearson, Sofia
Eyango, Ute Weber and Werner Südhoff – the concept and production is
from Bernt Möhrle. Their first project from 1978 titled “For Your
Love” is their disco cover of The Yardbirds’ rock classic with an
extreme overhaul and incredible arrangement joining the slick disco
sound with a rock feel. “Better Stop” is also from this project and
is a friendly warning from one friend to another about the abuses of
cocaine in circles. The intent is laid out plainly where the soul is
stolen from the addiction and a clear path is waiting. It also
contains the strong combination of Ute’s rock edged voice along with
a soulful dose from Oscar Pearson. |
 |
|
• Hell On Wheels - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cher
Cher is one of the talents of our time. Her continuance in breaking
barriers and creating her iconic stature as her own is phenomenal.
“Hell On Wheels” is Cher’s 70’s contribution to the disco era with a
fabulous production by the late-great, Bob Esty. This roller-disco
piece has the edge of a teenage rock concert with multi-colored
flares igniting along with the energy. Cher is once again giving her
performance as only she can deliver with the edge that gives us the
resolution before the start and of course the perfection of this
song working in her own arena. The track is a monumental disco
production which makes a time long gone seem intriguing. |
 |
|
• Don't Break My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Den Harrow
Den Harrow is an Italo-disco act whose vocals are provided by Chuck
Rolando, Silvio Pozzoli, Tom Hooker and Anthony James – while the
stage performance is given to Stefano Zandri. The production is from
Miki Chieregato and Roberto Turatti and brings fullness to the sound
of Italian disco music in the 80’s. “Don’t Break My Heart” is from
the project “Day By Day” from 1987 and is a plea for a continuance
of a love which seems troubled yet here in a realm that is worth
saving. The dramatic flair of this piece has plenty of deep
sequencers pounding out the disco beat with tears and all. One of
the lower energy tracks with that after-hours feel. |
 |
|
• Why Can't We Live Together - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kongas
Kongas is a band from the early 70’s and included Cerrone and Don
Ray. The band reached a top disco status with their 1977 cover of
Steve Winwood’s “Gimme Some Loving” and it’s hard hitting disco
energy. Their cover of Timmy Thomas’ “Why Can’t We Live Together”
released in 1982 and again, produced by Cerrone. This version lends
to the disco percussion and hard beats which ignite the original in
a new way. The track has been covered by many bands and artists and
this version lands a top level achievement where the elements follow
close to the original anthem, yet stand out in their own delivery. |
 |
|
• Hasta La Vista - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - T-Series
T-Series is a German techno project from Peter Ries and Wolfgang
Filz – who also gave us “Who Killed JFK” by Mysteria in 1982. “Hasta
La Vista” is a take on the 1991 Arnold Schwarzenegger film
“Terminator 2: Judgment Day” and his memorable line. The hardcore
edge is close to a rave energy and much of the power from this track
is a rolling sequencer which outlines the dub versions from the 12”
I new-beat style of using the heavy bass beats and giving way to
challenges from keyboard to keyboard as the breaks. This one is fun
and inventive as much of the techno sound of the late 80’s and early
90’s created. |
 |
|
• Everlasting Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sandra
Sandra (Sandra Ann Lauer) is a German pop singer who was also a
member of the group, Arabesque in the late 70’s. Her
producer/husband is artist, composer and songwriter, Michael Cretu
(“When Love Is The Missing Word”) and brought his unique sound to
her projects. “Everlasting Love” from 1987 is Sandra’s cover of the
1967 Robert Knight song that has been covered by many artists
including another dance version from Vicki Sue Robinson. Sandra’s
soft approach is a melancholy approach along with the sometimes
striking arrangement created by Cretu. It is an 80’s feel with its
dosage of synthesizers and keyboards laying the ground for this
classic. |
 |
|
• Touch Me in The Morning - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lydia Steinman
Lydia Steinman is a disco singer from the 80’s who released her
cover of Diana Ross’ majestic classic, “Touch Me In The Morning” in
1985. Produced by Jimmy Brown – this electronic production is a
percolating energy version with a set of lyrics and choruses that
could not go wrong. This one rings several great bells of
opportunity to convert this classic into an 80’s dance piece. The
sequencers make up most of the foundation of this arrangement and
the keyboards are simple yet effective. All in all this is a diva
song where this diva makes it work for her cause. |
 |
|
• It Feels So Good - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sonique
Sonique (Sonia Marina Clarke) is a singer, disc jockey and producer
from London who released several projects during the start of the
millennium. Her big unforgettable track from 1998 titled “It Feels
So Good” is one of the electronic house anthems of its time. The
energy in this song has the momentum of the love she sings
poetically and in her own vein. There is a mystique about this
number which brings on a satisfying ritual within its self. The song
was produced by Chris Allen, Linus Burdick, Matt Smith, and Simon
Belofsky. |
 |
|
• You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Marcia Hines
Marcia Hines is a vocalist who began her recording career in 1975
and gave her music a unique feel with her distinct delivery and
whole hearted emotion infused. Her dance floor hot from 1981 titled
“Your Love Still Brings Me to My Knees” is one of my favorites from
the period thanks to Marcia’s incredible vocal. It was also a dance
floor igniter where the first few minutes brought many new dancers
out. “You” is a track released in 1977 from her album, “Ladies and
Gentleman” – which was also recorded by Rita Coolidge the following
year. This love song is a testimony for a partner who leaves her
mind on feeling excited on what is to come. It is one of the tracks
which make it easy to fall in love with love itself. |
 |
|
• Sugar Daddy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Keren and Chelle
Keren and Chelle are Karen Poole and Shelly Poole – formerly a group
titled Alisha’s Attic. Their 1988 single, “Sugar Daddy” is one of
the finale and definitive pieces of the 80’s high energy scene.
Produced by Steve Slavin, J. George Hargreaves and Mick Parker in a
sweet yet with slivers of sequencers shooting out the rhythm along
with the SAW-sound alike feel. It is a track that worked in my club
for months where peak time reached just that. The song itself is
quite irresistible and has the two girls playing the role as close
to you can image as the energy prevails. |
 |
|
• Running Wild In The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Evelyn Thomas
Evelyn Thomas is reining “High Energy Diva” of the 80’s. Her dance
music during the high energy period gave dance floors an anthem with
her big 1984 hit, “High Energy” – produced by Ian Levine and Fiachra
Trench. “Running Wild In The Night” brings the 80’s nightlife to a
peak with its driving sound and the accompanying of Evelyn’s
fabulous voice guiding us through the one edge of town to another.
It has always been one of my favorite tracks from Ms. Thomas and has
always brought the dancers a place where their own legacy is noted
and celebrated. |
 |
|
• Flames Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fancy
Fancy is an electronic dance project created and performed by German
born singer/musician Manfred Alois Segieth. His growth in dance
music has succeeded no only his releases under Fancy but also many
of his productions with many artists including Slip and Grant
Miller. “Flames Of Love” is his release from 1988 and rings out like
a disco love anthem. The keyboards serenade his wondrous and
somewhat lost vision of a one-sided love where he plays the fool as
he sinks deeper in love. The essence of Fancy can be understood as
this one covers all of his mastery in creating an aura of high
energy music for a dance crowd waiting for drama. |
 |
|
• Turn Me On Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Astaire
Astaire is a high energy project on the UK label Passion Records –
produced by Nigel Stock and Nigel Wright. The magic of this session
are the vocals of Tracy Ackerman who began her dance floor stent
with Astaire and went on to recording as a solo artist in the latter
80’s. “Turn Me On Again” is their single from 1987 and is
co-produced by John Davies. This powerful and exhilarating piece is
one of the tracks in this genre which peaks over and over with
several ricochet effects and the chorus which brings on an uplifting
and powerful moment. It is one where Tracy’s vocal yearn more and
more giving way to a surrender of her desire. |
 |
|
• Radio Ga Ga - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Queen
Queen is a rock legend and a dance floor diamond. Their music
relayed a new outline challenging rock music’s principles and
guidelines with a winning on their creative end. Their 1984 album
titled “The Works” – produced by Mack and Queen is another genius of
weaving a craft of music. “Radio Ga Ga” is homage to old radio which
many lost touch with as soon as the video trends of the 80’s took.
The track emphasizes an old world of music forgotten and gives a
salute to its power even though time shifts the sound of its content
and technology. One of the most genius assemblies is the full on
electronic production with percolating bass synthesizers and sharp
metal-like keyboards playing out this homage. It is another one of
Queen's magic moments for the band and Freddie Mercury’s towering
vocal. |
 |
|
• Sahara Nights - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - F.R. David
F.R. David (Elie Robert Fitoussi) is a French singer who began his
recording career in 1967. His dancer floor fame came from tracks
like “Sahara Nights” released in 1987 and produced and arranged by
Celso Valli (Passengers, Tantra, Azoto). This track is a dreamy bass
track driven dance number that reflects an aura of the desert nights
and its beauty. F.R. David delivers a nice enticing vocal gives us
the intent of a moonlit night with dunes awaiting romance and
adventure. A nice 80’s synth-pop piece that echoes the early morning
feel of a dance floor. |
 |
|
• Rocket 2 U- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jets
The Jets are a band who is actually a family group formed in 1977.
Their popularity grew with their first release “The Jets” in 1985 –
produced by Donn Powell and gave them a few singles which made them
an addition to the dance community. “Rocket 2 U” is from their 1987
project titled “Magic” and was produced by Bobby Nunn and featured a
12” single remixed by Steve Thompson and Michael Barbiero. The
single became a hit in clubs and gave the band once again their
notoriety as one of the most popular family groups since The Jackson
Five. The track emphasizes a love relationship which is being
outlined for a partner who is missing the point…but not for long. |
 |
|
• Gimme Some Loving - Glenn Rivera ReStrcuture Mix- Fun Fun
Fun Fun is an Italo-disco project from producers Dario Raimondi and
Alvaro Ugolini – and vocalists Ivana Spagna, Antonella Pepe and
Angela Parisi. “Gimme Some Lovin’” is a sweeter sounding cover of
the Steve Winwood/Spencer Davis Group track from 1967, This
electronic hi-NRG/Italo house arrangement is a more melodic feel for
the classic song and takes on a whole new message with the softer
vocal approach. It moves along with riffs done in a fast moving
synchronized movement and make this cover version stand alone in its
entirety. |
 |
|
•
Dream Express is a Belgium disco group who began recording in 1976.
The members include Bianca Maessen, Luc Smets, Patricia Maessen and
Stella Maessen. The essence of their sound is the female harmony
which blends in with the beauty of the pop sound of the mid-70s.
This being the initial points where disco music was being guided and
gathering all influence from music passing. “Spinning Top” is a
single from 1977 which originally is the B-side to their track “A
Million In 1, 2, 3” and with the magic ingredients poured into this
one is a memorable feel. There are musical parts which echo the
early 70’s and a lovely chorus from the ladies that give the proof
of the group’s strength. |
 |
|
• Standing Ovation - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - GQ
GQ is a disco/funk band from The Bronx and members were Emanuel
"Rahiem" LeBlanc, Herb Lane, Keith Crier, Paul Service and Steve
Adorno. Their first hit track “Disco Nights (Rock-Freak)” from 1979
created a style and audience for their funk based disco sound.
“Standing Ovation” is from their 1980 project, “GQ 2”. Another great
dance number with heavy rhythm guitars guiding their slick
arrangements. The sound was a fierce number which gave the dance
floors another moment to groove again to GQ. |
 |
|
• Moonlight and Muzak - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - M
M is a synth-pop project from Robin Scott. Their big hit “Pop Muzak”
from 1979 became one of the early dance groups to direct their sound
with a light nu-wave edge. “New York, London, Paris, Munich” is
their album which features their second single, “Moonlight and
Muzak”. Another full-on electronic arrangement with a slight touch
of romance where the moody voice informs us of a night which began a
new chapter of love. The keyboards play out as a series of riffs
guide us through the sweet chorus which informs us of just how
serious this romance is. |
 |
|
• Blame It On The Weatherman - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - B Witched
B Witched is an Irish girl group from the late 1990’s – members are
Edele Lynch, Keavy Lynch, Lindsay Armaou and Sinéad O'Carroll.
“Blame It On The Weatherman” is their single from 1998 produced and
written by Ray "Madman" Hedges. This one is a big floor packer for
this time period in my club as there were plenty of movers that hit
floors at the same time and also the mood of the track itself has a
classic heartbreak feels. One of the singles of the time which I
played continually and also extended for the fast moving vibes and
bass this one commits to. |
 |
|
• This Is Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Susan Stevens
Susan Stevens is a Canadian disco project from the producers of
Nightlife Unlimited - Johnny Dorazio, Robert Brewster and Tony
Bentivegna. The project was released in 1983 and utilized an
electronic format using sequencers and keyboards to paint the energy
from this early high energy sound. Susan Stevens is one of the
darling voices of disco music from this period and works the music
simply with love sonnets in her sweetness which sounds like the girl
groups from the late 50’s. “This Is Love” flows beautifully in its
nice rolling energy and gives off the full electric arrangements
which these producers worked well in many sessions. |
 |
|
• Don't Make Me Over - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sybil
Sybil (Sybil Ilona Lynch) is a vocalist from Paterson, New Jersey
and brought a free style beat to an updated recording of Dionne
Warwick’s 1962 song, “Don’t Make Me Over” – written by Burt
Bacharach and Hal David. Sybil’s 1989 release produced by Dolores
Drewry and James Bratton is a beat driven downtempo dance piece
which gives the song a new life. The vocal from Sybil is a bit more
subtle and lilting but blend well with the production which aims
towards the bass beats and light keyboard riffs. |
 |
|
• Right On Track - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Breakfast Club
Breakfast Club is a band formed in the late 70’s and consists of
Stephen Bray, Dan Gilroy, Ed Gilroy and Gary Burke. Their big hit
titled “Right On Track” from 1987 is a slick and unforgettable song
which skates on both wheels from the chorus piece. It was produced
by Jimmy Iovine and is from their self-titled project. The momentum
of dance music in the 80’s was fed by several new remix techniques
and the creative songs which followed and this track is the hilt of
that time period. It holds up to its sound and of course that slick
chorus works all the time. |
 |
|
• Circle Of Fire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Penny McLean
Penny McLean (better known as “Lady Bump” from 1975) released her
third project titled “Midnight Explosion” in 1878 – produced by
Michael Kunze and arranged by John Davis (and The Monster
Orchestra). The single “Circle Of Fire” is the track which received
the attention with its Flamenco edge and the climbing chorus which
Penny brings to hilt with an effective delivery. The success of
Silver Convention and Penny also starred in the ensemble brought
this production into being. It is one of the disco-camp of the time
period and has that sophisticated polish that disco music was
formulated on. |
 |
|
• Love In Motion - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - 1000 Ohm
1000 Ohms is a Belgium new-wave band consisting of Frank Van
Bogaert, Johan Van Herck, Koen Van Assche and Mien Van Bogaert as
members. Their 1984 self-produced single “Love In Motion” is a
syncopated pop track which pounds out sequencer bass patterns in a
percolating manner and along with their unique left-field vocal this
one becomes of interest to dance floors of the time and music
enthusiasts. It is a definite track that questions the motivations
we take when in love and the possible interferences. It is one of
the alternative sounds with a hardcore high energy electronic feel
covered with that 80’s vocal. |
 |
|
Bionic Boogie is disco producer, Gregg Diamond’s classic group and
ensemble which helped to formulate the disco edge of the mid-70s
with a mature and funky sound. His early work with Andrea True
Connection (“More, More, More”) was an early sign of his creativity
and masterful take on lyrics and the sound of a live band assisting
his compositions. “Tiger, Tiger (Feel Good For A While)” is from his
1979 project by the same name. This album is an awareness of the
changing of dance music from 1979 to the 80’s. His movements here
are much more glistening with a rock/nu-wave feel in segments.
Vocals are beautifully executed once again by Luther Vandross (an
original session singer for Bionic Boogie) and play out a mysterious
as this theme. |
 |
|
• Show You My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Goldie Alexander
Goldie Alexander is a vocalist from Canada who released his single
“Show You My Love” in 1981 – produced by Tony Green. Goldie is also
known for his vocals on the 1979 album “U.N.” and the dance floor
hit, “Disco Power”. “Show You My Love” is a hard driving electronic
funk piece which throws punches left and right - beginning with
Goldie’s heartfelt vocals which always display a soulful and direct
approach to his material. The production is a groove which does not
let up from start to finish. It is one of the great releases in this
genre of that year and kept my dance floor packed during those peak
hours. |
 |
|
• Can't Stop - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rick James
C.M. Lord (Catherine Mitchell Lord) is a soul vocalist, songwriter
and producer who began her recording career in 1976. “You’re The
Only One” is a single released in 1983 on a new dance label titled
Wave Records and produced by Pete Robinson and C.M. Lord. This is
one of the tracks from 1983 which encompass the power of disco music
and the move onto the electronic arrangements of the early 80’s: a
soulful synth-pop alternative. Vocals are the main point in this
piece and give Lord an opportunity to express in her hearty delivery
a love that is undeniable and ready. A big club record that has the
energy and soul that makes the 80’s dance floor once again stand out
as a unique experience to be discovered. |
 |
|
• You're The Only One - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - C.M. Lord
C.M. Lord (Catherine Mitchell Lord) is a soul vocalist, songwriter
and producer who began her recording career in 1976. “You’re The
Only One” is a single released in 1983 on a new dance label titled
Wave Records and produced by Pete Robinson and C.M. Lord. This is
one of the tracks from 1983 which encompass the power of disco music
and the move onto the electronic arrangements of the early 80’s: a
soulful synth-pop alternative. Vocals are the main point in this
piece and give Lord an opportunity to express in her hearty delivery
a love that is undeniable and ready. A big club record that has the
energy and soul that makes the 80’s dance floor once again stand out
as a unique experience to be discovered. |
 |
|
• Come On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sweet Heat
Sweet Heat is an electronic disco project from Canadian producers
Johnny Dorazio and Tony Bentivegna – who also gave us Nightlife
Unlimited, Blue Laser, Motion and Ladies Choice. “Come On” is their
single from 1982 and from their album titled “Do You Like It, Like I
Do”. This is a fast moving piece with a slick vocal which resembles
the soulful edge of disco music and yet moves like a whirlpool with
the energy it creates. One of the releases of the time which helped
to create the “high energy” sound which became more evident in the
mid-80’s. |
 |
|
• Cry To Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Precious Wilson
Precious Wilson is known for her big disco hit “I Can’t Stand The
Rain” with Eruption from 1977. Her solo career continued her
fantastic vocal performances with a unique soulful edge and powerful
emotional delivery. “Cry To Me” is from her 1980 project titled “On
The Race Track” – produced by Frank Farian and also keyboards by
Michael Cretu. The song is a cover of the 1962 release by Solomon
Burke. Precious Wilson creates a new feel with this version and
along with Farian’s disco spectacle production this one is another
one of her memoirs which always play out. |
 |
|
• Disco Star - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jackie Carter
Jackie Carter is a singer with her first project titled “Treat Me
Like A Woman” was released in 1976 – produced and arranged by Dieter
Dierks. The single “Disco Star” is a “boogie” track in the vein of
Silver Convention and the early formula of disco in the mid-70s. A
heavy bass track and light strings guide this dance number to a hip
shakin’ experience along with the male spoken riff which defines it.
The vocal from Jackie plays out well as she explains how to make you
on alive on the dance floor with her method. It is one of the early
disco tracks which make the traces of disco music easily understood
and also undeniably irresistible. |
 |
|
• Show Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Cover Girls
The Cover Girls are Angel Clivilles, Caroline Jackson and Sunshine
Wright – a pop/freestyle trio who released their first single titled
“Show Me” in 1986 – produced by Andy Tripoli and The Latin Rascals.
This was the start of the trio’s success in the dance music
industry. “Show Me” is a beat driven piece with a fierce echo of
demand for proof of love in a relationship. The song did quite well
for their first release and brought an album release a year later
titled the same. The vocals play a tough part in the outline of the
freestyle sound and project with an exuberance of excitement. |
 |
|
• Only One Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Hurricanes
The Hurricanes is a dance project from disco producer, Manfred Alois
who is also known as the group Fancy and Timerider. “Only One Night”
from 1988 is a concept single where Alois applies his keyboard work
and disco beats for a morning after awakening which rings out in
this piece. It has several riffs which define the track and is one
of the releases which helped to shift the late 80’s into a new
definition of dance music called “Asian Nu-wave”. The haunting edge
of this song is one that is somewhat hypnotic and makes a wonderful
early morning addition. |
 |
|
• Love's Gonna Get You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jocelyn Brown
Jocelyn Brown is the female voice of disco music as is Luther
Vandross the male counterpart. The many sessions that Brown has
participated in have helped to not only shape disco music but also
bring it back to life during the 80’s and throughout her continued
career. “Love’s Gonna Get You” is her single from 1985 and was
produced by John "Jellybean" Benitez. This track is pure New York
Garage with its street beats and sharp keyboard riffs – and if that
were not enough Brown revisits her classic cover of “Ain’t No
Mountain High Enough” with Inner Life – another Paradise Garage
classic. This one not only creates a new anthem but also pays homage
in many ways to club music from start to finish. It is also the
source of some highly influenced dance pieces from the 90’s. |
 |
|
• Give Me Your Love (Inch By Inch) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Buffets
The Buffets are Peter and Mary Buffet whose single “Give Me Your
Love (Inch By Inch)” appeared on the San Francisco based DJ
subscription label Hot Tracks (Series 1 Issue 9).This piece was
remixed by Mike Lewis and was in the early morning genre of dance
music with a fast paced bass sequencer pumping out a sensual message
along with some psychedelic breaks and segues which have a mystique
which belongs to the club period of the time. The track was one
which became an underground hit for cruise and after-hours dance
clubs since the feel of the song was an outline for this scene. It
was one that I would include in many mixed tapes with this aura and
also a personal favorite for that dark yet uplifting edge of club
music. |
 |
|
• Woman In Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ariel
Ariel is a techno house production from Boris Inzhin, Doug Beck and
Mauro P. DeSantis – a New York based project released in 2000 on
Extreme Records. This cover of Barbra Streisand’s 1980 ballad
written by Barry and Robin Gibb is a transition to the fast
pulsating techno beats which were being formulated in the mid and
late 80’s and rave and techno-house. This arrangement focuses on the
ambient sound and gives our vocalist and opportunity to give a
performance that a disco version would yield lightly. Lots of drop
breaks and clever keyboard riffs make it a memorable track from
another period where the dance floor sound was regrouping. |
 |
|
• Dream Street - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson grew up physically and musically right in front of our
ears and eyes. Her second project titled “Dream Street” was produced
by Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte – an odd pairing however there
was a connection since Moroder has worked with many 80’s artists
creating club hits in his own style. With Jackson here there is very
little connection however you do hear a touch of Moroder in some of
the keyboard tracks. Later, Janet became a full-fledged artist with
productions by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis where she was able to
emerge like a butterfly out of the Jackson clan to be herself.
“Dream Street” has the sound that Janet became in the early 80’s
which personified her young and sweet personality with dreams and
aspirations. It is a light production by Moroder and Bellotte but
still contains that young Janet we were all waiting to see arrive. |
 |
|
• Your Place Or Mine - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Quinella
Quinella is a disco project from producer Kenny Lehman (Lemon,
Rhetta Hughes) and Thomas Jones released in 1980. This teasingly
sensual track is a side of the nightlife which remains open until
the club doors shut and when this question arises. “Your Place Or
Mine” is a grinding piece of bass winding into a pattern that
creates a nice groove. The vocals are a light hearted disco edge
with the chorus girls demanding an answer since no other subject at
the time tops this offer. It plays out like a rolling wave that that
keeps on until the last chorus. |
 |
|
• Let's Hang On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Salazar
Salazar is vocalist Pete Salazar and producer David Perry (Carrie
Laporte, The Redz) and released the first project in 1980 containing
a cover of Frankie Valli and The Four Season’s 1965 pop hit “Let’s
Hang On”. It is no surprise that Salazar as lead vocalist is a Valli
sound alike and brings this one not only home but keeps us warm all
over again. The song itself is a strong yearning to continue to work
with a relationship with so much promise. It is a great dance floor
rejuvenator in the disco realm since it has such a positive feel and
energy. The production is a post-disco sound with plenty of lite
percussion placed in segments where we can bring ourselves to
feeling the uplifting sound. |
 |
|
• Diamonds Never Made A Lady - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lift Up
Lift Up is a studio synth-pop band from Dieter Bohlen – and is a
cover of Modern Talking’s song. It is executed in the classic
essence of the original band and the vocals are placed almost
identically. This more pulsating version is an addition to the
homage of a great duo as Dieter Bohlen and Thomas Anders. The
sacrificing story here of a woman who leaves those who love her for
a life of pretention and conceit make a point across in a romantic
air and gives to the lure of money over heart. The track is a
wonderful dance floor excursion and makes the bass pumping worth it
all. |
 |
|
• Illusion - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Luisa Fernandez and Peter Kent
Luisa Fernandez and Peter Kent released the track “Illusion” in 1991
– produced by Peter Kent and Peter Wesselmecking. This wonderful
song is the idea that love has two faces and you must understand the
illusion and well as the reality to make it last. It is a beautiful
synth-pop dance track in the vein of Modern Talking but with the
tantalizing vocals from Luisa and Peter. The build within the song
gives off a beautiful and airy sound that resonates in each chorus.
A nice production with some strings sections which sound like a
matador given homage in his arena. |
 |
|
• Megatrone Woman - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Native Love
Native Love is a disco project from disco producer Joe Long
(Midnight Rhythms) along with the influence of Patrick Cowley’s 1981
high energy hit “Megatron Man”. Long transforms the galaxy’s hero
into a female hero with a “native” overhaul giving off remnants of
the original “Megatron Man” arrangement with more of a tribal feel
along with funky plucking bass guitars. The new feel is a heavy beat
with more African drum rhythms pounding away for this new
mythological woman. More of the high energy influence is definitely
captured in this Salsoul Records release and may have been the
defining factor in a new dance sound emerging to a new dance floor. |
 |
|
• Paradise - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dance Department
Dance Department is a German disco project from
producer/writer/arranger Andreas Drewling. “Paradise” is the single
released in 1986 and is in the Euro-disco flavor with keyboards
pointing to the message at hand. One of the downbeat tracks which
pounding the groove using the formula created by Bobby Orlando in
the early 80’s. The vocals are a bit of Modern Talking with more of
an edge and not so much harmony - however with the aggressive
downbeat they are appropriate. Synth-pop had emerged several periods
during the 80’s dance movement and this may have been the finale
execution with a bit to spare. A nice dance number and easy to
understand how it fits perfectly on the ZYX label. |
 |
|
• Pink Cadillac - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Natalie Cole
Natalie Cole is the daughter of Nat King Cole. She took the
seventies into her arms with many soulful hits and also her
charismatic persona. “Pink Cadillac” is from her 1987 project titled
“Everlasting” and was produced by Dennis Lambert and written by
Bruce Springsteen. This is track that invaded the clubs quickly and
made Natalie once again visible to the dance industry. One of the
catty and cleverest of her dance number she delivers this one with a
yearning and desire which is fitting as the song itself. A big
number in my club and took months to wear off. |
 |
|
• Encore - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cheryl Lynn
Cheryl Lynn is a vocalist who leaves not only a string of hit
recordings but also brought a new edge to a soulful delivery.
“Encore” is from her 1983 project titled “Preppie” – produced by
Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. This funk number is one of the memorable
moments where Cheryl gives us more of her talent with what she does
best. Many of her tracks where she become playful with her vocal
arrangements we end of finding out what else she has been hiding.
The song initiates a reward to an outstanding partner who delivers
love like a hit show and the show is “live”. A great focus and makes
the electronic funk come to a mild hilt and then the next level is
like a rollercoaster ride. |
 |
|
• French Kiss - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Le Foxxe
Le Foxxe is a street-beat/freestyle track from producer Mitchil
Bechet and engineering assistance from Chris Barbosa (Shannon “Let
The Music Play”) and vocals by Janice Christie. This sexy track is a
statement of love and desire as these lovers confess what they like
best in the heat of the night – “french kiss”. The production here
is a beat box conglomeration of reverberating beats and kick tracks
that knock down walls. It is the sound of the New York street dance
from the early 80’s and undeniably sexy and hard mounting. The vocal
helps to keep this one on track with many references to the
suggestions which make everything alright. |
 |
|
• Baby, I Love You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Easy Going
Easy Going is an Italian disco group from Giancarlo Meo and Claudio
Simonetti (Vivian Vee, Capricorn, Goblin) and released their first
project in 1978 titled “Easy Going” (which was the name of a
gay-club in Rome). This project featured Vivian Vee on backing
vocals – and she was later produced by Meo and Simonetti. The heavy
percussive arrangements are the disco magic of the era and make
these energetic tracks come to life. “Baby, I Love You” is a love
song that gives a lover the answer to a heartfelt question with a
bending verse that hits the point. It is one of the early signs of
Italo-disco becoming the next phase. |
 |
|
• Time Operator - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Off
Off is an electronic group from Germany and members are Sven Väth,
Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti. Their single titled “Electrica
Salsa (Baba Baba)” from 1986 gave them a recognized style and
execution which was a hit among many clubs which preferred an
alternative sound. “Time Operator” is from their 1988 project titled
“Organisation For Fun” and tells the story off a mythical entity
which controls the realm of reality through time in the universe. It
is quite the super-hero edge and Off uses a spoken dialogue to relay
the message. This track very mysterious and plays out with many
riffs which roll throughout the arrangement. |
 |
|
Paul Simpson is a house music producer and artist who released his
project in 1989 titled “One”. The project strongly focused on the
house music movement and the unity and love that it relayed to its
dancers. His single “Musical Freedom (You Got The Love)” is one of
the most popular of the singles and has been used in several shows
in media to reflect emotion or positive change. The vocal is
provided by disco artist, Candi Staton (“Victim”, “Young Hearts Run
Free”) who makes this track into an instant anthem with her soulful
and gospel traced performance. The elements in the arrangement are
the antidotes which were the most recognizable for the end of the
80s and present this track in an appropriate manner. |
 |
|
• Come Alive - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - JB Orchestra
JB Orchestra is a project from musician/producer Jimmy Brown and
“Come Alive” from his 1991 album titled “Tambourine Fever”. This
beat driven track is ethereal and as close you can get to an outer
body experience on the dance floor – complete with chants and
positive suggestions to accompany this. The track has a foundation
much like the sound of the early hip-hop beats from tracks like “The
Power” from Snap. Using this base the aural feel gives this piece a
relaxing quality that is very pleasing. The unification of energy
seems to be pointed in the retro culture of the 60’s with a dose of
universal love injected. It is one of my favorite sleaze tracks and
still leads my mind in a calm and peaceful place. |
 |
|
• You'll Never Stop Me From Loving You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sonia
Sonia is a singer from the UK who was the latest artists for the hit
making trio, Stock, Aitken and Waterman in 1990. Her single “You’ll
Never Stop Me From Loving You” from 1989 became a club favorite
thanks to the formula on the synth-pop scene of the time. This
became her biggest hit and it also peaked at #1 on the UK charts.
The simple love song is the outline of a love which has no barriers
and end in sight for this track destroys any delay or disruption of
the affair. It plays out sweetly in the SAW manner where each verse
becomes more of a build for the chorus. |
 |
|
• I'm The One You Want - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Les Lee
Les Lee is a dance project from producers Rick Wake and Lou
Bolognese and is actually Taylor Dayne in this recording session
from 1985. “I’m The One You Want” is a stickler when it comes to
vocals thanks to Taylor and her soft rock edged delivery. There are
pieces of the acapella which have been sampled in many house, trance
and techno tracks following the 80’s. The production is a “garage”
feel with many breaks and raw drum beats pounding in segments
between choruses. Taylor Dayne’s move to recording stardom is not a
surprise when you hear the power she brings to this independent
dance release as well as the productions following by Rick Wake.
This single is a big start for a huge talent. |
 |
|
• I'll Be Good To You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hydro featuring Lorna
Hydro is a Canadian disco band whose self-titled project from 1979
was a big hit in many clubs now brings back the feel of “disco
band”. Produced by Joe La Greca who also gave us Kat Mandu, Vera,
Nancy Martinez and Jay Peel. This layout is a rhythm session with
lots of funk driven into the disco beat. “I’ll Be Good To You” is a
track from the project which is a groove that follows the formula of
disco music in its prime where the horns and percussion drive the
beat into a layer of solid riffs. The vocal from Lorna Di Fiore make
this one funky and raw as underground disco should be. Hydro is a
classic among the big year of disco music and the excitement can be
heard in a track like this. |
 |
|
• Reflections - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Evelyn Thomas
Evelyn Thomas is “high energy” music’s fuse which set the 80’s dance
floor on to a new trajectory. Her big 1984 anthem “High Energy” was
the official song to outline the new sound. In 1985 she released her
high energy cover of The Supremes 1967 hit “Reflections” – and done
with the vocals displaying energy and lasting resonance. This one
produced by Ian Levine and Fiachra Trench is a disco masterpiece of
electronic pulses and the original injected psychedelic edge updated
appropriately. The synthetic orchestra here strikes over and over as
Ms. Thomas gives us a helping of her magic over and over again. One
of my all-time favorites. |
 |
|
• Come To The Rainbow - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rainbow Team
Rainbow Team is an Italian disco/funk band created by Luciana
Cirrillo and Michele Violante. Their first release was a single
titled “Come To The Rainbow” from 1979 and was produced by Maurice
Cavalieri and Tommy Cavalieri. The angle of this track is a jazz
feel with the horns dominating the build into a simple chorus which
defines the dance floor as a “rainbow”. It is one of the singles of
its time from Italy which received an honorable praise for it use of
a breakdown mix which incorporates the disco sound of the 70’s. The
energy level here resides around a more funk edge with lots of
percussion bring the rhythm into dance perspective. |
 |
|
• I'm So Hot For You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bobby "O"
Bobby Orlando took over dance floors in the early 80’s with his
unique sound and feel of his music which would help in the start of
the “high energy” movement. Heavy beats, percussion and retro 60’s
keyboards were a flair which lit like fire during a period where
disco music was an ensemble of instruments and now with the
electronic music period among us this new rhythm could find its
stage. “I’m So Hot For You” is Bobby “O”’s 1982 release on his “O”
Records label and quickly heard on playlists in clubs everywhere.
With the early success of his studio groups as The Flirts this set
him as a continued artist for dance floors. This track relies on a
flirtatious eye looking for action and laying the line right out. It
is one of his favorites among his fans and makes the 80’s dance
floor effect return almost immediately. |
 |
|
• Ritespot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Blueprint
Blueprint is a high energy project from musician/producer Barry Blum
and disco pioneer, John Hedges and released their single, ”Ritespot”
in 1983. The track was fused with the magic which Blum provided with
prior artists Lisa, The Buffets, Jolo and Boys Town Gang. The
subject hears lets in on a new gamble on a romance which seems to
need that ‘ritespot’ to make it. The drum tracks on this dance track
were also interesting to hear drop out of the rolling bass as if it
were from another medium yet make the some much more interesting. It
was as if someone was rolling dice and the outcome as our love
interest here is unknown. The team of Blum and Hedges can also be
heard on the huge high energy hit, “Seclusion” by Shawn Benson. |
 |
|
• Love Is The Message - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - MFSB featuring The Three Degrees
MFSB is the ensemble which created the evolution of soul to disco
during the early 80’s. Their 1973 project “Love Is The Message” was
a track written by Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff – who also produced
this Philly dance anthem. The piece became the outline for the unity
and purpose for the underground dance circuit where disc jockeys
came into power by choosing their programs by dance floor approval.
It is a powerhouse recording which blends the jazz edge of soul
music into what would soon become the ‘The Salsoul Sound’ with
Vincent Montana Jr. working on this magic also. The Three Degrees
sprinkle their beautiful sound over this track as their affiliation
with the Philly movement is proven with their hit “When Will I See
You Again”. This recording brings the song a new feeling and is ear
candy for those who appreciate these ladies as they are. |
 |
|
• Caribbean Queen - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Billy Ocean
Billy Ocean is a singer from Trinidad and began his recording career
in 1976 and become one of the most recognized voices in dance music
and contemporary pop music of the 80’s. “Caribbean Queen” is a
pop-dance single released in 1984 and was produced by Keith Diamond.
The track became an instant radio and club hit and still echoes the
80’s dance structure to this day. The production hits the target for
club music with its heavy rolling bass and the segmentation of
percussion effects throughout the dance remix. It is one of the
infectious of male solo singles released in the 80’s and once again
gives Billy an opportunity to show his soulful and powerful vocals. |
 |
|
• Atomic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Blondie
Blondie is Chris Stein, Deborah Harry, Clem Burke and Jimmy Destri –
a nu-wave turned pop-rock band who maintained their unique appeal in
the transition of disco taking over in the mid and late 70’s.
“Atomic” is from their 1979 project titled “Eat To The Beat” –
produced by Mike Chapman. The track is a powerful vocal approach in
the focus of keeping a hardcore edge with an arrangement similar to
“Heart Of Glass” – complete with percolating sequencers. The song
climbs into several crescendos where the main guitar riff becomes a
wonderful contender for a Bond film theme. It is a quite exciting
moment for Blondie and makes the message known that someone is
making the night explode. |
 |
|
• I Wanna Have Some Fun - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Samantha Fox
Charlie is an Italo-disco project from Giorgio Stefani and Maurice
Cavalieri – released in 1983. This innovative “beats” track combined
the sound of Italian electronic dance music which was evolving in
the early 80’s creating an audience who were faithful and always
waiting for the next release from the many talented musicians and
producers who were trying out many formulas in their creative
forces. “Spacer Woman” features a ghostly haunting vocal which
introduces her being as an alien intelligence who means no harm –
only to deliver love and peace. The beat wrap around the many
keyboard riffs in a street-beat box manner that is infectious and
somehow new to the pulsating rhythm. One of the big Italian disco
surprises of the time and most likely is around for those new
connoisseurs of this sound. |
 |
|
• Spacer Woman - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Charlie
Charlie is an Italo-disco project from Giorgio Stefani and Maurice
Cavalieri – released in 1983. This innovative “beats” track combined
the sound of Italian electronic dance music which was evolving in
the early 80’s creating an audience who were faithful and always
waiting for the next release from the many talented musicians and
producers who were trying out many formulas in their creative
forces. “Spacer Woman” features a ghostly haunting vocal which
introduces her being as an alien intelligence who means no harm –
only to deliver love and peace. The beat wrap around the many
keyboard riffs in a street-beat box manner that is infectious and
somehow new to the pulsating rhythm. One of the big Italian disco
surprises of the time and most likely is around for those new
connoisseurs of this sound. |
 |
|
• West End Girls - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pet Shop Boys
Pet Shop Boys are Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe – this synth-pop duo
has created and produced some of the most incredible dance music
since their inception during the early 80’s. “West End Girls” is
their first memorable single from 1984 and released with a
production by high energy producer, Bobby Orlando. The track is a
definite dive into what these innovative men where all about.
Creating a mood and depiction of an imaginative substance by
tweaking familiar elements in a new way. The song became such a
dance floor hit and it was re-released later with a whole new
production. Pet Shop Boys can do no wrong and it is has been from
the start of their recording careers this has been evident. |
 |
|
• I've Been Thinking About You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Londonbeat
Londonbeat is Jimmy Chambers, Jimmy Helms and George Chandler – a
British pop/dance band from the 90’s. Their big 1990 hit “I’ve Been
Thinking About You” has one of the most infectious rhythm guitar
riffs of the time and is also one of my favorite songs from the
period. It relies on the lead vocal yearning for a lover who was let
goes a bit too early and now is a memory which will not go away. The
piece was produced by Martyn Phillips and William Henshall and is
completely directed at the dance floor of this time period. There is
a haunting resonance from this track that gives out the pain of
heartbreak yet the excitement of a potential reunion of lovers. |
 |
|
• Eskimo Kiss - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eskimo
Eskimo is an Italian high energy project from producers, Mauro
Farina, Giuliano Crivellente and Florian Fadinger. On this track
vocals were recorded by Alessandra Gatti and are the pinnacle of
this dance number. It is a fast moving number which gives our lady
here an opportunity to tell her man that the connection is too
distant and growing too weak. The arrangement is wound on a soft
bass keyboard which seems to catch up with the energy and yet makes
a subtle statement that is effective. However, the real star here is
the main vocal which plays out in the Italo-disco fantasy world
which was always nice to escape on during those hot sweaty nights of
the dance floor. |
 |
|
• Sophisticated Lady - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Natalie Cole
Natalie Cole is a soul/pop vocalist who began her recording career
in 1975 and continued onto 2013 and the passed in 2015. Her music is
a respectable catalogue of classics, dance tracks and standards.
“Sophisticated Lady” is from her 1976 project titled “Natalie” and
was produced by Gene Barge. This soul fantasy gives us the style of
a vibrant onlooker who describes a woman who brings attention to
herself with elegance. It is a nice early groove that gives an
introduction to a lady who eventually conquers the pop world with
ballads and dance floors with many soul/funk/disco tracks where she
adds her resonance. |
 |
|
• Rock-A-Lot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Aretha Frankin
Aretha Franklin is undeniably “The Queen of Soul”. Her voice has
created many experiences for the ears and soul to bring into a whole
new definition of emotion in music. “Rock-A-Lot” is from her 1986
project titled “Aretha” – produced by Naratha Michael Walden. This
is the 80’s Aretha where she serenades the electronic funk of the
time and does it with all her might. The track is one of the
memorable pieces from the pop-dance period and contains some serious
ad-libs from our diva that knock even the “party” out of the water.
It is number that gave us another period of this very iconic woman
for more of her talent in a new arena. |
 |
|
• Symphonie Pour Danseurs - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Magnum
Magnum is a studio project from producer/artist Denis LePage of
Lime. The first edition of Lepage’s move to outline instrumentals
from his hit productions was in 1982 with his project Mother (F). In
this project he gives us studio instrumentals of tracks from his
group Voggue (“Dancing The Night Away”) and a new instrumental
titled “Symphonie Pour Danseurs” which is LePage’s signature
instrumental as he created in 1979 with “The Break” by Kat Mandu. A
layer of lush strings over a bubbling percussion foundation which
plays out as a television action show theme. A 70’s disco formulas
which began as a simple moment for the band to play out their wares
and became quite tuned and mature for dance floors at the end of the
disco era. |
 |
|
• Club Underworld - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cerrone
Cerrone is master of Euro-disco and introduced the world to a sound
which defined an era of dance music. His 1983 project titled “Where
Are You Now” featured the track “Club Underworld” – which featured a
new element of “rap” and the street-beats of early 80’s formulated
by DJs. It was no wonder that Cerrone took a twist in this sound and
meshed it with his sensual elegance that he has been so well known
for during the mid and late 70s. This piece features an anthem
paying homage to the nightlife and all it was from the 70s and now
onto the 80s where it survived with a shift in dance music. Cerrone
takes another opportunity to give us a moment to stand back and
watch his genius take another shape. |
 |
|
• Shame - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gaby Lang
Gaby Lang is a singer from Belgium who released several dance
singles during the mid and late 80’s – her last single from 1988 is
a cover of the Evelyn ‘Champagne’ King disco classic “Shame”. This
full on electronic arrangement works in a mellow and somewhat
enticing way. Gaby’s sweet and mild vocals provide a new take on the
disco/soul original. The production by Alan Dee takes on a house
groove/beat from the period with a lighter edge on the keyboards to
provide more of an aesthetic. A nice covers of a disco classic and
proves that there is more than one way to skin a cat. |
 |
|
• Superparadise - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Romy Haag
Romy Haag (Eduard Frans Verbaarsschott) is a nightclub performer and
artist from The Netherlands who released the single “Superparadise”
in 1978 - produced by Raymond Bacharach. This track is a fast
winding song with the feel of an opening number of a fabulous
nightclub act – in the tradition of “La Cage Aux Folles”. This
moving number describes a time in the past where all were welcome
and quite a menagerie of gods and partygoers would converge and mix.
The song moves fast as Romy takes the helm to make this sound as
exciting as it could be from the stage. |
 |
|
• The Kozak - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Oleksa
Oleksa is a Russian ensemble lead by Oleksa Martynovych. Their 1980
single “The Kozak” produced by Frank Previte and O. Martynovych is a
disco instrumental with several builds from a percussion base to a
blaring horn section. One of the rare disco pieces from 1980 which
follows the dance floor of the 70’s pattern where a series of drums,
percussion and rhythm guitars bring dancing feet to the hilt. A nice
arrangement with several breakdowns and some nice sensual play on
vocals. |
 |
|
• (Everything I Do) I Do It For You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Astaire
Astaire is a Passion Records artist produced by Nigel Stock and
Nigel Wright. The high energy era of the 80’s would not have been
the same without Astaire and the many dance anthems that this group
has left behind. Some more powerful than others and some just
incredible – with vocals by Anita Astaire. Her 1991 cover of Bryan
Adams’ rock classic “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” is no
exception and plays along the lines of recreating the mood and
energy of the original in a dance/high energy union. One of the most
played for me in my club during its release and many nights the last
song of the evening where dancers where still singing it as they
left. |
 |
|
• Urgent - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shannon
Shannon is the goddess of dance music who brought back that dance
floor feeling in 1983 with her huge hit “Let The Music Play” –
produced by Chris Barbosa and Mark Liggett. Her follow up project in
1985 was “Do You Wanna Get Away” – where the title track was another
instant hit. “Urgent” is a cover of Foreigner’s 1981 song done in
Shannon’s slamming street sound. The track does well as an
electro-funk piece and Shannon delivers the vocals in an enticing
and sensual way. The deep bass sequencers convert the rock piece
into a well arranged dance track. |
 |
|
• Crank I Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Joyride
Joyride is a high energy project from producers Rory Slater and Hugh
Cooper during the late 80’s. This track is a cover of the Peter
Brown disco classic “Crank It Up (Funk Town)” from 1979 – one of the
anthems which helped to bring the disco era to an appropriate close.
This electronic production is a flowing version which utilizes
vocals from George St. Kitts which work well in the new arrangement.
This number has been transformed into a disco sequencer edge with
the song following closely. It is one of the nice covers of disco
classics where a whole new dosage of sounds and energy make it new
and complete. |
 |
|
• Crazy In The Night (Barking At Airplanes) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kim Carnes
Kim Carnes released her project titled “Barking At Airplanes” in
1985 – produced by Bill Cuomo and herself – it was a follow up to
more of her 80’s dance floor numbers with “Crazy In The Night
(Barking At Airplanes)”. The track is a hint of loneliness and
despair most likely after a split in a relationship where the night
becomes an uneasy spot alone. The production utilizes a pop-rock
edge with roaring guitars and Kim guiding us through this convincing
and scary place. The energy is quite low-key however the chants and
lead in to each chorus make it quite exciting. |
 |
|
• Backfired - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Debbie Harry
Debbie Harry introduced the pop-world to new-wave in 1978 with their
big project “Parallel Lines” – which also included their disco hit
“Heart Of Glass”. Debbie eventually began recording under her own
name and during the early 80’s her production was taken over by Nile
Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of Chic. The project titled “KooKoo” was
released in 1981 and featured the single “Backfired” – any heavy
bass guitar and horn arrangement driven piece. It was the 80’s
conversion from disco to a hardcore “Chic” edge. The story goes that
this romance goes astray from the start yet there is much to
ridicule about our outed man. “Backfired” is the word which Debbie
informs him that she has been no fool since his cards have been
flipped over from the start. |
 |
|
• Your Blue Eyes - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - A Certain Ratio
A Certain Ratio is a British indie-band formed in the late 70’s and
featured |
 |
|
• Love's Unkind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sophie Lawrence
Sophie Lawrence is an English singer and actress who released 2
singles in 1991 one which is a cover of Donna Summer’s 1977 track
“Love’s Unkind”. This production from Pete Hammond captures the 50’s
edge with an electronic edge with bass pulsating and key sequencers.
It plays out with a distant feel of melodic parts echo through the
rolling bass. A complete update of the saxophone driven original
version. Sophie’s vocals are light and deliver the necessary love
forlorn heroine who seems to be caught in a defiant situation in a
much wanted relationship. The Summer version of course always rings
the best with Donna giving tribute to the Motown era in her own way
but this update plays a bit on the level of doing a masterful job at
recreating the fun of heartbreak. |
 |
|
• Sexy Dancer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Prince
Prince is one of the artists who began his recording career in 1977
with the release of his project titled “For You” – which featured a
diverse sound of his edge on funk and disco music. It was the early
80’s when his music began to move into a fusion of funk and new wave
along with his hardcore messages and themes. “Sexy Dancer” is from
his 1979 self-titled album and is one of the tracks which outline a
sound which Prince has created from his own genius. The piece is a
rhythmic dance track and moves into his own arena with his stripped
down band sound and his funky guitars mainlining. |
 |
|
• Slave (For Your Desire) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tracy Ackerman
Tracy Ackerman is a high energy vocalist who worked on projects
under the name Astaire (“The Power Of Love”, “Love Trap”) and also
appeared on projects for Advance and Mirage during the 80’s. For
myself, I adored Tracy’s contributions to 80’s high energy dance
music from her first note. The sweet yearning that she delivers
always outlines the themes of love and heart break. Her most
recognized label is the British dance label Passion Records in which
she helped to give the label its own identifying sound in many
releases. “Slave (For Your Desire)” is a single released in 1987 and
produced by Nigel Stock and John Davies. |
 |
|
• Highway Runner - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Donna Summer was featured on the soundtrack of the 1982 film “Fast
Times At Ridgemont High” with her track “Highway Runner”. I can
remember reading at the time where this track was originally was to
be released on “The Wanderer” project but was not as it was intended
to be a double album release. The track is one of the early 80’s
recordings where Donna moved her sound into the 80’s with a touch
more of a rock edge sound. This piece has the synth-pop edge with
the distorted guitars to deliver that promise and Donna’s vocals as
always are inventive and always surprising to discover new talents
over and over from this legend. |
 |
|
• Arena - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Soccer
Soccer is a disco project from producer Tony Valor and consisted of
Angelo Venuto, Carmello Venuto, Eve Arrio, Joe (Pepe) Tessuno,
Lawrence Venuto, Sal Cruella, Susan Fredo and Vincent Venuto. The
band has had several memorable hits including “Come And Get It On”
from 1979 and “Give Me Your Love” from 1980. Their self-titled
project included the instrumental track titled “Arena” which is a
Latin-flavored composition with Flamenco guitars and brass horns
serenaded throughout the arrangement. It is a nice production which
plays the energy very mellow yet brings out the flare of a dance
track. |
 |
|
• Double Action - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sarr Band
Sarr Band is a disco ensemble from 1978 who released a single titled
“Magic Mandrake” and their project “Double Action” from 1979. The
titled track from “Double Action” is one of their memorable rhythm
pieces which loop an infectious guitar riff with a mellow groove.
The piece is more known as a cult number where its intent is to be
placed in the right spot at the right time. It has many elements
which make it seem like a small fire being fanned over and over. |
 |
|
• In Hollywood (Everybody Is A Star) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Village People
Village People are Victor Willis, Alexander Briley, David (Scar)
Hodo, Felipe Rose, Glenn Hughes and Randy Jones – the brain-child of
disco producer Jacques Morali. “In Hollywood (Everybody Is A Star)”
is from their first project from 1977 and is one of the tracks which
helped to set these men on the main stage during the disco era. The
segment from the side one medley is an outline of the dream of
stardom and the worn out effect it sometimes creates. The production
here is pure disco during the formulation of a pop-like edge with a
club arrangement intact. Lots of strings and horns with heavy
percussion guiding us into the groove. |
 |
|
• Get Up And Boogie - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Silver Convention
Silver Convention is one of disco music’s golden girl groups. The
line-up for the 1976 project “Get Up And Boogie” include Linda G.
Thompson, Penny McLean and Ramona Wulf. These ladies paint their
lovely vocals over the chic strings and funky bass rhythms of
arranger Sylvester Levay and producer Michael Kunze. “Get Up And
Boogie” is a staple from the early days of disco music and creates
the aura of the excitement and lure of the dance floors as they
began to take notice and shape. The groove of this piece is one of
the memorable sounds of the rolling bass and the swirling strings. |
 |
|
• Fall Into A Trance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jimmy Ross
Jimmy Ross is a singer from Trinidad who became one of the early
80’s exciting Italo-disco artists and their ride from producers
Luciano Ninzatti and Stefano Pulga (both are members of Kano) is a
display of the full-on electronic dance sound. “Fall Into A Trance”
is a love song with a juice that keeps oozing more of the magic
which made the early 80’s another time for dance music to mature and
grow. The lyrics beg a potential lover to give in and let go of all
emotions, heart and soul – therefore “into a trance” of love. The
music here is a mainstay of power which made the band Kano a
forerunner for its time and lasting through time with the futuristic
edge – much as Moroder created in the mid-70’s for disco music. |
 |
|
• No More Illusions - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eraora
Eraora is an Italian disco project with David Sabiu, Marco Sabiu and
Michele Centonze. “No More Illusions” is their 1987 single on Ibiza
Records and has the deep beats as a house track along with an 80’s
Stock Aitken Waterman build which makes it stand out. A track which
became an instant hit in my club and chorus riff which still fades
in and out of my memory. The vocals are a chorus of troubled voices
giving the surrender to a hopeless relationship for the night as
trouble ensues. The full on electronic production is a patch work of
breaks and rhythm guitars. One of the last of the Italian
productions which presented a veer in another direction. |
 |
|
• El Watusi / La Bamba - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rags and Riches
Rags and Riches is a disco project from producers Vinny DePaola and
Bobby Ragona released in 1983 on Casablanca Records. This outline is
the dances of the past and outlining two of the most memorable
numbers with a Latin flair. “El Watusi” originally released by Ray
Barretto and the Ritchie Valens rock classic, “La Bamba” are segued
in this medley with a few clever segements added to make this one
sound like an instant festival. The spoken words are provided by
Barbara Norris and vocals from Chaz Jones in this powerhouse medley
of memories. |
 |
|
• Super Freak - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rick James
Laura Branigan is a singer who brought the 80’s excitement with her
big dance hits “Gloria” and “Solitaire”. “Dim All The Lights” is her
1995 cover of Donna Summer’s self-penned hit from 1979 and her “Bad
Girls” project. Branigan gives the track her range of talent mildly
yet effectively with a production by Orville Brinsley Evans which
follows the late 80’s and 90’s pop-house outline. Light keyboards
and a kick-house rhythm are the transformation from the disco beats
of the original. The song itself is one of those which always sound
anthem-like and this cover helps keep it up to par as the song
deserves. |
 |
|
• Dim All The Lights - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Branigan
Laura Branigan is a singer who brought the 80’s excitement with her
big dance hits “Gloria” and “Solitaire”. “Dim All The Lights” is her
1995 cover of Donna Summer’s self-penned hit from 1979 and her “Bad
Girls” project. Branigan gives the track her range of talent mildly
yet effectively with a production by Orville Brinsley Evans which
follows the late 80’s and 90’s pop-house outline. Light keyboards
and a kick-house rhythm are the transformation from the disco beats
of the original. The song itself is one of those which always sound
anthem-like and this cover helps keep it up to par as the song
deserves. |
 |
|
• She's Heavy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - V.I.S.A.
V.I.S.A. is an Italian disco project from producers Angelo & Felix
Piccarreda (Passengers, Nuggets) and arranged and directed by Mr.
Celso Valli. The production here is once again majestic thanks to
the talent of Mr. Valli and his layering of strings, horns and
percussion. His work here stands out with a few familiar riffs but
most sounding fresh and groovy. “She’s Heavy” is a cut from the 1979
project “San Francisco” and lends the chorus a stage to frame a
woman who brings the floor energy with her presence. The soulful and
tendered vocal is the magic of V.I.S.A. and unites that theory that
is “disco” music is soul music with a bow tie. |
 |
|
• Dancing Queen - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kryptonite
Kryptonite is a disco project from Canadian producer Joe La Greca
(Hydro, Kat Mandu, MTL Express and Diva) and arranged by Denis
LePage (Lime). “Dancing Queen” is their single from 1982 which makes
a deep bass and drum groove come to life for the dance floors using
the formula which moved the early 80’s into what would become high
energy dance music. This one has several nice hooks which rotate in
and out of the lead vocal informing us of the moves that make the
‘queen’ in the club. It is infectious in many ways with the horns
blaring into the chorus and the heavy drums pumping out the disco
groove. |
 |
|
• Always Lookin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lipps Inc.
Lipps Inc. is one of the disco bands who marked the era with dance
music which brought the end of the 70’s to a peak and the 80’s with
more possibilities. Their 1980 project “Pucker Up” is their follow
up to the “Funkytown” album titled “Mouth To Mouth” and utilizes the
talents of vocalist Cynthia Johnson and again the creative
arrangements and concepts of producer Steve Greenberg. “Always
Lookin’” is a track from the project which has the power of
Cynthia’s vocals belting out how old nightclubbing habits die hard.
It has a nice energy that is lifted with several riffs and a form
fitting vocal performance. |
 |
|
• I Don't Want To Be A Freak (But I Can't Help Myself) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dynasty
Dynasty is a disco/funk/soul ensemble featuring Kevin Spencer, Leon
Sylvers, Linda Carriere, Nidra Beard, Wardell Potts and William
Shelby. Co-produced by Solar Records president, Dick Griffey. “I
Don't Want To Be A Freak (But I Can't Help Myself)” is from their
1979 project titled “Your Piece Of the Rock” and is a tasty
disco/funk track which places the sweetness of disco music among the
groove of funk. The infectious chorus makes it difficult to believe
that this period would be the last of the disco themed songs. There
is a smooth transition from their soulful sound to the disco chorus
moments which make this an outline for an anthem. |
 |
|
• Menergy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mother F
Mother F is a high-energy project from Joe La Greca and Denis
LePage. Originally released as a double album of instrumentals from
hits by Carol Jiani, Chris Mills and Lime, this project was a must
and desire for DJs spinning in clubs which gave rotation to the
original hits. The following project featured their covers of
underground disco classics – “Welcome Aboard” by The Love Unlimited
Orchestra and “Menergy” by Patrick Cowley. The cover of Cowley’s
“Menergy” was released in 1981 and laid the track out in a layer of
reproduced in a thinner layer of sequencers remapping the original
in a tribute. The arrangement is credited to Kat Dyson which also
gives another pat on the back to the genius of Patrick’s imagination
and execution of musical thoughts. |
 |
|
• Lucky Star - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madonna
Madonna is an artist/singer/actress whose career began as a back-up
dancer for disco artist, Patrick Hernandez (“Born To Be Alive”).
Madonna’s first album was one of the exciting moments in 80’s music
history as we were able to see her dedication and complexity to
dance music. Her long run as a celebrity and the never ending shift
in her reinvention of sound and essence of her stance have always
given us a new way of looking up to her. “Lucky Star” is a single
from the first self-titled album and was produced by Reggie Lucas.
This love song is in a nursery rhyme feel with a few new injections
of the electronic dance scene which was taking part in the early
80’s. The vocal from our diva is along the lines of being childlike
to flow with the aim of the tracks adoring desire. |
 |
|
• Diana - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Julius Brown
Julius Brown is a vocalist who was produced by Jacques Morali
(Village People, The Ritchie Family) in the early 80’s for two of
the periods powerful high-energy tracks – his first single “Party”
from 1983 was an immediate hit in clubs and “Diana” the second is an
anthem dedicated to the Motown Diva herself, Ms. Diana Ross. The
production is a full on electronic arrangement with pulsating bass
sequencers generating the energy. Along with Julius’ soulful vocals
and approach to each track there is a winning sound all together.
“Diana” has a beautiful and powerful chorus in which Brown makes use
with his ad-libs using titles from Motown classic from the lady. A
nice piece of high energy dance and a plus again for Morali who made
a successful transition into the 80’s as a high energy producer. |
 |
|
• Rackety Ride - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Candy Belle
Candy Belle is a high-energy project from German producer Christoph
Leis-Bendorff and features vocals from Karin Damen. “Rackety Ride”
is the single released in 1987 and is a pumping track with synthetic
horns and bass throughout the arrangement. The story here is plain
and simple where a weekend is quickly approaching and represents an
out of control experience. The energy here is at a mid-pace even
though it seems to strike more intense with the deep bass drums.
This one is the lead from the mid-80’s energy to a newly amended
Euro-energy which focuses more on the layering of the arrangement.
Candy Belle makes the end of the 80’s seem well worth dancing
through. |
 |
|
• The Dominatrix Sleeps Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dominatrix
Dominatrix is Dominique Davalos and Stuart Argabright – an 80’s
group who released “The Dominatrix Sleeps Tonight” in 1984 –
produced by Kenneth Lockie. This track became an underground hit
immediately due to its alternative sound and theme. A full
electronic production with riffs which emphasize an unruly night for
some except for the mistress herself. The keyboards have a raw edge
which follows the new-wave movement yet with a definite New York
underground sound. One piece which resurfaces every once in a while
in circles where the cult music and dark edge are subscribed. |
 |
|
• Love Love Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sinitta
Sinitta is a high energy singer who is actually the daughter of
Miquel Brown (“So Many Men, So Little Time”) and followed in her
mother’s footsteps in the dance music world by recording some of the
best energetic tracks. “Love Love Love” comes from her 1989 project
titled “Wicked” and produced by Ralf Rene Maue. This super track has
a melody that flows like a disco classic and builds as such. It is
force of music that pulls Sinitta out to honor a contender to give
up the love that can become more than just a fling. Some wonderful
keyboards and a roaring bass sequencer make this one hard not to
understand. |
 |
|
• Never Coming Back - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shiver
Santa Esmeralda is one of the European disco groups which began a
movement in the sound of dance music in the late 70’s. “Seville
Nights” is an instrumental piece released on the soundtrack to
“Thank God It’s Friday” in 1978 in a double vinyl package. The track
was also featured in the film and was produced by Jean-Manuel de
Scarano and Nicolas Skorsky. The flamenco instrumental is an outline
of the Spanish themes which the band always projected in an
orchestral layout. Many of their tracks are disco classics in not
only the originality of their execution, but in the full
arrangements which Santa Esmeralda was known for. |
 |
|
• Seville Nights - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Santa Esmeralda
Santa Esmeralda is one of the European disco groups which began a
movement in the sound of dance music in the late 70’s. “Seville
Nights” is an instrumental piece released on the soundtrack to
“Thank God It’s Friday” in 1978 in a double vinyl package. The track
was also featured in the film and was produced by Jean-Manuel de
Scarano and Nicolas Skorsky. The flamenco instrumental is an outline
of the Spanish themes which the band always projected in an
orchestral layout. Many of their tracks are disco classics in not
only the originality of their execution, but in the full
arrangements which Santa Esmeralda was known for. |
 |
|
• Lazer Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laserdance
Laserdance is Erik van Vlie and Michiel Van Der Kuy – a Dutch
electronic duo who created a hard-edged dance sound using industrial
drums and keyboards along with the galactic themes. “Lazer Dance” is
their first single from 1984 and is a rotating synthesized piece
which has some clever riffs working over the sequencer bass
foundation. Much in the Italo-disco influence with a touch of their
own imagination which include a robotic-sounding lead taking us into
each adventure. |
 |
|
• Cha Cha Cha - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Finzy Kontini
Finzy Kontini is Bruno Rosellini, Claudia Colombi and Fabrizio
Baldoni – an Italian disco project from the late 80s. “Cha Cha Cha”
is their 1987 release which helped to keep the flow of disco music
filtering throughout the clubs with this magical sound. The piece
does exactly what the title says – it “cha cha cha’s”. The clever
use of striking keyboards and Latin percussion make this one a hard
one to keep still with. It has a sweet and lyrical lead vocal which
makes the 80’s a complete overhaul for high energy music. |
 |
|
• Finally - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ce Ce Peniston
Ce Ce Peniston is soul/house/disco vocalist who took clubs hostage
in 1991 with her hit “Finally” – produced by David Morales. This
powerhouse track made the post-Top-10 Disco during its release and
made Peniston a welcomed standard to playlists and dance floors
everywhere. The staple became even more solid as it became one of
the current pieces played in several films following its release.
The outline is new found love and the excitement can be felt from
start to finish thanks to Ce Ce killer vocal delivery where she
makes and breaks her own “breaks”. A classic and now gold classic
since I am sure many followers are still igniting each time they
hear it played. |
 |
|
• If You Love Somebody - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Barbara Doust
Barbara Doust is a high-energy artist from Canada who is well-known
as the voice behind the track “My Forbidden Lover” by Tapps. Her
solo career from the late 80’s and into the late 90’s gave the dance
floor several memorable moments in the high-energy genre – including
“If You Love Somebody” from 1987 – produced by Vincent Degiorgio.
This piece began as an anthem and finishes that way. It begins with
a wall of heavy synths paving the way for a subtle and irresistible
delivery from Barbara who shares with us the wonders of ‘loving
somebody’. This one did quite well during a period of non-stop
releases in this genre and stands out with her fabulous sound
echoing throughout the mechanical rhythms. |
 |
|
Sandra (Sandra Ann Lauer) is a German pop-singer who took the edge
of the 80’s with her and her producer husband Michael Cretu (Cretu
And Thiers and Enigma) with a powerful electronic dance sound with
her subtle and soft delivery. “Secret Land” is a single from 1988
and is a dreamy dance track with rolling bass to bring it the top
layer of rhythm. It is one of her most memorable pieces with its
haunting and eerie keyboards creeping below the surface. This one is
from her project titled “Into A Secret Land” and has the full
elements of which sound Sandra made her own during the end of the
80’s. |
 |
|
Merge is C.J. "Blood" Johnson, Debbie A., Marc Reaux, Marlon Mathis,
Randy Alexander, Reg Morris and Walter Thigpen. The funk band from
Chicago released their project titled “Merge” in 1982 and featured
the single “Take It To The Top” produced by Carl Davis. The track
was a big hit on radio stations that featured the new releases of
80’s funk and their top chart dance hits. The energy here is a
non-stop barrage of vocoder chants which bring the energy up to
boiling at times. The vocals are a soulful and sassy demonstration
and help make this piece irresistible. This one would be one of the
underground dance pieces which made it on its own merit. |
 |
|
• Everybody's Got To Learn Sometime - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Brian Davis
Brian Davis is a singer who released a single titled “Everybody’s
Got To Learn Sometime” in 1991 – produced by Jean-Yves Galmiche and
F. Ferry. The track was produced in France and has a Euro-house feel
with the resonance of a Stock Aitken and Waterman project. A simple
groove that uses more of the breakdowns in percussion and keyboards
to build on the energy. The focus of the song relays the lessons
learned in a relationship which has gone astray. The single was
released as the lone release from Brian Davis and did well for the
club play in the proper programming. |
 |
|
• Looking For A New Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jody Watley
Jody Watley began a recording career in a group titled Shalamar in
the late 70’s. Her talent, dedication and hard work gave her a solo
career in the mid-80s. Her 1987 self-titled project gave her a new
opportunity to take the music industry again with five releases from
the album becoming club hits. “Looking For A New Love” is the first
release and became a staple among many clubs and also pop-radio.
Produced by André Cymone and David B. Rivkin this piece made
electronic funk lives again on dance floors and airplay. A great
down beat and several riffs bring this number home with Jody right
alongside. One of that year’s big surprise hits and an opportunity
to give Jody the spotlight she deserved. |
|
|
• You're Not So Hot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol Douglas
Carol Douglas is a disco diva who has given the disco era many
tracks to move on dance floors with including “Doctor’s Orders”,
“Night Fever” and “Midnight Love Affair”. Her 1983 project titled
“Love Zone” produced by Andy Barret, Eddie O'Loughlin, Ray Rock and
Richard Sher features her single “You’re Not So Hot” which is
definitive in its own right. This track gives us a Carol fed up with
a relationship that is currently challenging and now somewhat done.
This statement as the titled says, “You’re Not So Hot” is the end of
the romance which seems to bring only lies and pain. It is an early
80s dance floor hit that gives a new sound and a Carol who has moved
on both into the 80’s and in songs message. |
 |
|
• Sat-is-fac-tion - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Lee
Laura Lee is a soul/gospel vocalist who began her recording career
in the late 60’s and reached the disco era where she recorded the
single “Sat-is-fac-tion” – produced by Don Davis and arranged by Mr.
Patrick Adams. The sensual disco number is a breathy and sexy
outline of just how a lover can leave someone when everything is
right. The saxophone segments are a deep in the sex appeal realm as
much as Laura’s very tender and sensual approach at this dance
tracks. It has many riffs that are memorable and make this 70’s diva
a stance up on her career into the late 70’s. |
 |
|
• Capricorn - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Capricorn
Capricorn is an Italian disco group led by producer Claudio
Simonetti – who also is a part of the band Goblin along with
Giancarlo Meo. This project was an early influence in Italian dance
music with an electronic dance sound fused with synthetic strings.
“Capricorn” is a beat-funky track which brings inhabitants from
‘Capricorn’ to find themselves an earth woman to return to their
galaxy where there are none. The keyboard riffs are which stand out
here much like a well-crafted 70’s funk song. Pulsating sounds and
plucking bass guitars unite with a raw-edged vocal which falls into
a soft chorus in a very effective manner. This release from 1980 is
definitely one for those who prefer funk and adventure in their
dance music. |
 |
|
• Proud Mary - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chi Chi Liah
Chi Chi Liah is a Dutch disco project from Albert Boekholt and Chris
Pilgram. This is a cover of John Fogerty's "Proud Mary" - made a
rock staple from the recording by Ike and Tina Turner. The street
sound of the early 80's was heavily inspired by the DJs who would
utilize the turntables as instruments in early rap music. The
manipulation of each beat was accomplished by double beats infused
and layer below simple keyboard riffs. One of the innovated and
creative styles which impacted many tracks that were breakout hits
such as "Buffalo Gals" by Malcolm McLaren and "Rain Forest" by Paul
Hardcatle. A similar approach to Kraftwerk’s use of electric sounds
and pulses. |
 |
|
• Exotically - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Jacques Band
Peter Jacques Band is a disco group formed in the late 70’s by
producer Jacques Fred Petrus and arranged by Mauro Malavasi. The
sound of this studio band began as a fast driving disco beat
accented by synthetic percussion and effects that would outline a
fireworks display. Their first album titled “Fire Night Dance”
became an instant hit with the four track release and made the late
70s begin to take note of what would become high energy music in the
early 80’s. “Welcome Back” is their 1980 release where the influence
on New York Disco began to shift a few gears in the project. Petrus
has branched out and produced a studio group called Change
(featuring vocals from Jocelyn Brown and Luther Vandross) and became
a disco art form of electronic pulses and disco strings. The sound
is much of what is heard on the track “Exotically” which features
again an ensemble of vocals outlining the perfection of a
relationship/romance. It has the magic that Malavasi adds many of
the production from Petrus and is obvious that the two were working
closely to formulate this sound. |
|
|
• Don Quichotte - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Magazine 60
Magazine 60 is a French disco project from producers Jean-Luc Drion
and Dominique Regiacorte. Their projects began as Stars On 45 medley
productions in the early 80s and later became a full-group ensemble
featuring Marc Delval, Pierre Mastro, Veronique Oliver and Yves
Delval. “Don Quichotte” is from their 1985 project titled “Costa Del
Sol” and was one of the club favorites of that year. The track has
several keyboard riffs which outline the theme in a somewhat
humorous yet direct mix-down where choruses and sampled sounds and
voices play out in the track. It is one of Magazine 60 and their
style from start to finish. |
 |
|
• Mighty High - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mighty Clouds Of Joy
The Human League is the 80’s electronic band which created a new
lure to the dance floor in a simplistic yet well defined. Their big
hit “Don’t You Want Me Baby” from 1981 is the landmark of their
success yet the project which brings the complete sound of this band
is “Dare”. From this album comes the track “The Things That Dreams
Are Made Of” which once again strips down the electronic keyboards
and lays out a robotic-rhythm which gives the lead vocals of Philip
Oakey a syncopated finish. This combination is one of the 80’s
perfect moments. |
 |
|
• The Things That Dreams Are Made Of - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Human League
The Human League is the 80’s electronic band which created a new
lure to the dance floor in a simplistic yet well defined. Their big
hit “Don’t You Want Me Baby” from 1981 is the landmark of their
success yet the project which brings the complete sound of this band
is “Dare”. From this album comes the track “The Things That Dreams
Are Made Of” which once again strips down the electronic keyboards
and lays out a robotic-rhythm which gives the lead vocals of Philip
Oakey a syncopated finish. This combination is one of the 80’s
perfect moments. |
 |
|
• Magic Carpet Ride - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bardeux
Bardeux are a high-energy dance project from Jon St. James – who
gave us Stacy Q (“Two Of Hearts”). The vocals here are provided by
Acacia and Jaz – two harmonic voices who bring a charm to the sound
of Bardeux. “Magic Carpet Ride” is from their first project “Bold As
Love” from 1988. The track is a winding piece of rolling energy
which feeds into diversions of fantasy and love. One of the big
radio pieces in dance music at the time of its release. One of my
favorites when it comes to a lyrical phrase and the voices which can
carry it out. |
 |
|
• Don't Panic! - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Liquid Gold
Liquid Gold is a disco band from U.K. and was produced by Adrian
Baker. Their big disco hit “My Baby’s Baby” from 1979 was one of the
exciting releases to experience in a discotheque environment as it
contained all of the energy that disco had become. “Don’t Panic” is
a single released in 1980 which follows along the same lines as the
formula which made their sound work. This one is a fast paced song
of bewilderment and confusion as our lead vocalist, Ellie Hope goes
through a romance on the breaks. It has a dramatic string section
which always outlined the pop-disco tracks of the time and a fast
moving rhythm section which doesn’t seem to phase or heroine here
what so ever. |
 |
|
• Just Like You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Heat
Heat is a soul/disco ensemble produced by David Wolfert and Tom
Saviano – featuring vocals from Ed Whiting, Jean Marie Arnold and
Tom Saviano. “Just Like You” is the single from their self-titled
1980 project and echoes the disco-funk sound of the late 70’s with a
jazz fusion. This powerful track has some great vocal as well as
rhythm guitars that administer the groove in more places than one.
The album displays the mellow grooves which follow more of a
contemporary jazz feel and gives off a nice and laid back yet
instinctive edge. |
 |
|
• Looking For Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Three Degrees
The Three Degrees are the magic created by The Philly Sound of the
mid-70s and along with their big hits “When Will I See You Again”
and “TSOP” a landmark group was set. In 1978 a monumental session
was created when the girls were produced by disco producer/artist
Giorgio Moroder. The first release is “New Dimension” which
contained the second half of the side one medley, “Looking For Love”
– where this set begins as “Givin’ Up, Givin’ In” ends an unstable
relationship and “Looking For Love” sets forth the search for the
cure for a broken heart. This project contained The Three Degrees in
a motion which literally set them back on the map on dance floors
and for another spotlight on stages around the world. |
 |
|
• Baila - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Afro-Cuban Band
Afro-Cuban Band (originally Love Childs Afro Cuban Blues Band) is a
disco project from producer Michael Zager (Michael Zager Band) and
delivered three projects from 1975 – 1978. “Baila” comes from the
album titled “Rhythm Of Life” and features the Latin flair with a
disco ensemble backing it. The track was released as a single and
did very well in clubs where jocks were adding the rhythms of
Spanish sounds which were the essence of disco music. This was the
last album from the project and is still one of the great pieces of
work from Zager. |
 |
|
• Whenever You Need Somebody - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ochi Brown
Ochi Brown is a disco/funk singer who released her third project
titled “Ochi” in 1986. The production is by Daize Washbourn, Stock,
Aitken & Waterman and Willi Morrison (THP Orchestra). “Whenever You
Need Somebody” is a track which was the big single and brought dance
floors a new love song with a groove that was unforgettable for the
time. The song was also covered by Rick Astley and is one of those
80’s pieces which bring to mind the dedication to dance floors as
well as a fond heart. |
 |
|
• Over The Rainbow - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Viola Wills
Viola Wills is a disco singer who made many marks during several
periods of dance music and its reign. Her big dance palace hit “Over
The Rainbow” from 1986 is from her project titled “Dare To Dream” –
produced by Billy Osborne IV, Mel Simpson and Paul Phillips. This
cover of Judy Garland’s classic from “The Wizard of Oz” is cleverly
disco-fied with a bass rhythm guitar plucking out a bass pattern
that is infectious and a touch of the 80’s dance floor headed into a
deeper and celestial arena. Viola again carries this cover in a way
that a seasoned disco-diva can. It is both a funky and soaring
experience. |
 |
|
• I Can't Wait - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio and Chris
Giorgio Moroder and Chris Bennett perform together on the project
“Love’s In You, Love’s In Me” from 1978 – featuring Munich Machine.
The side one title medley was always one of the delicate disco love
duets at a time where the sound of Moroder’s keyboards and
sequencers were in an experimental stage. This ballad like medley is
simple in execution and holds close the talent of Moroder and the
gentle vocals of Bennett and their place among disco music. I have
taken the segment “I Can’t Wait” and gave it a spotlight of its own
here as I always waited for each piece to come along for each one to
shine. |
 |
|
• The Power Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Deee-Lite
Deee-Lite is a house group with Ani Schempf, Kierin Kirby, Super DJ
Dmitry and Towa Tei. Their breakout in 1990 created a retro-dance
ignition which was homage to disco and funk music. “The Power Of
Love” is a single from their first project titled “World Clique” and
was another tale on the psychedelic trip meshed into the funky dance
scene of the 70’s. The track gave another chance for lead vocalist
Kierin Magenta Kirby to express her soulful dedication with the
bands assistance. It was one of the last tracks which truly outlined
the bands flavor and success. |
 |
|
• I Feel Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Devastation
Devastation is a techno/rave project from Dennis Pino and Joe Reina.
Their cover of Donna Summer/Giorgio Moroder’s “I Feel Love” from
1991 is a wiry and eclectic take on the disco classic. Arranged
using segments from the Patrick Cowley remix and a vocal by Laurie
Caban and utilizing the feel of the original as close as possible.
There are some new rave, acid house and techno elements pumping up
the energy. The release came when rave music was working its way
through the circuit so it is no wonder that the Moroder masterpiece
was thrown onto dance floors again with a then harsher edge. It is a
nice homage to the classic and along with Caban’s vocals it will
bring you right back to 1977. |
 |
|
• Bring On The Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gloria Jones
Gloria Jones is a soul-vocalist who is best known for her 1964
recording of “Tainted Love” which was later recorded by Soft Cell.
Her 1978 project titled “Windstorm” – produced by Richard Jones
contained her single “Bring On The Love”. This beautiful piece was
released as a 12” disco single and made playlists for clubs
utilizing the softer edge of dance/disco music. The theme of this
number reunites estranged lovers who are ready to start over again –
this time, as friends. It is quite an emotional track and Gloria
creates a lovely narrative for the message. |
 |
|
• You and Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Spargo
Spargo is a Dutch disco group formed in 1975 and features |
 |
|
• Conga - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Miami Sound Machine
Miami Sound Machine is a Latin American band founded by band leader,
Emilio Estefan, Jr. in 1977 –the band went on to continue and soon
acquired lead vocalist Gloria Fajardo, later becoming Gloria Estefan
and branching off to a solo career. “Conga” is one of the first
major singles from 1985 their project titled “Primitive Love”. The
track became very popular in the club circuits and revived a Latin
dance edge that was missing in the pop realm. It is one of the
celebratory pieces which evolved in its own sound and is still one
of the staples of the dance era of the 80s. |
 |
|
• I Don't Wanna Lose You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Radiorama
Radiorama is a Eurobeat from the mid-80’s founded by Aldo Martinelli
– with vocals from Mauro and Clara Moroni. “I Don’t Wanna Lose You”
is from their 1988 project titled “The Legend” and is produced by
Marco Bresciani and Paolo Gemma. This single was one of the low-bpm
pieces which became a staple in my club for its heavy drums and
pop-lyrical chorus. It has many of the elements which made Radiorama
a group which stood out during the transition from the European
disco sound becoming more evident in releases for club play. |
 |
|
• Touch Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - New Baccara
New Baccara is a disco project from producers Luis Rodriguez and
Reinhardt Frantz – the group was originally known as “Baccara” and
added the prefix during the 90’s. Vocals in this single titled
“Touch Me” are from |
 |
|
• Harmony - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Suzy Q
Suzy Q is a Canadian disco project from producer Jerry Cucuzzella.
The studio work consisted of three separate lead vocalist
representing time periods and releases. The 1985 cover of Suzi
Lane’s “Harmony” (originally produced by Giorgio Moroder) is one of
the best disco reworks since the vocals come into a diva-like realm
and explode throughout this new arrangement. The lead vocal from
Angie Vileno are stamp in this production and make the track new all
over again. A great 80’s remake and also another example of high
energy taking the initiative to keep dance music alive. |
 |
|
• Up Where We Belong - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Deevotion
Deevotion is a Euro-house project from Germany – produced by Jens
Lissat and Ramon Zenker. Their 1992 single “Up Where We Belong” is a
cover of the Jennifer Warnes/Joe Cocker ballad from the film “An
Officer and A Gentleman” from 1982. This slick version and take on a
ballad is one of the big moments in Euro-house music as this
arrangement plays close to the feel of the original emotion and adds
yet a house groove without any regrets. One of the best of
conversions from ballad to dance floor stomper since many of the
anthem tracks that dominated during the late 80’s. |
 |
|
• Chinese Eyes - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fancy
Fancy is Manfred Alois Segieth – a German producer who formulated
many dance projects that became the sound of the 80’s high energy
scene. “Chinese Eyes” is a single released in 1984 and is one of the
memorable pieces from Fancy as it hits hard with many heavy bass and
keyboard riffs. The 80’s dance scene was ready for this edge of
pulsating electronic beats and synthesizers and the formula became a
standard. The vocals are a mainstay of Fancy’s singles and give the
songs a momentous approach at building to a crescendo. A very
popular piece and one which I would have to program over and over
during the time it became a staple. |
 |
|
• The Desert Place - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Twins
The Twins are Ronny Schreinzer and Sven Dohrow – a German
dance/synth-pop band who captured the early 80’s dance sound with a
mixture of magnetic keyboard riffs and a new-wave edge on vocals and
sound. “The Desert Place” from 1981 is their first big single from
the project titled “Passion Factory” – produced by The Twins. This
piece is heartbreak of yearning to where a past love takes us to a
lonely place when it is over. The sound of this one is ominous and
always makes the emotions stir along with the roof shaking. One of
the great electronic dance pieces of its time and a start for this
band that always seemed to get it right. |
 |
|
• The M.B.O. Theme - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Klein and M.B.O.
Klein and M.B.O. is Mario Boncaldo and Tony Carrasco – creating a
sound for the dance floors in the early 80’s which centers between
the street beat sound of New York combined with the Italo-disco
synth-edge. Their first release in 1982 was titled “Dirty Talk” and
played out with several electronic riffs which made their sound
recognizable. Their album followed soon after the success of the
single and featured more tracks in this laid back groove with a
percolating layer of percussion riffs. “The M.B.O. Theme” is a
keyboard piece opening up the project and uses the familiar guitar
riffs and keyboards to playout an overture for their tracks. |
 |
|
• Instant Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvia Love
Sylvia Love (Chantal Pierre) is a singer who after 2 singles from
1979 became an underground sensation. Her sensual vocals floated
above her songs, “Instant Love” and “Extraterrestrial Lover” –
produced by Trevor Vallis and arranged by Craig Pruess. These
singles were a big part of the after-hours dance clubs which would
offer dancing until the sun came up with variations of songs that
would be dream-like states of dance conciseness. It was the area
which I was drawn to immediately since more of these styles and
productions were imaginative and heavily layered. The big track
“Instant Love” is an introduction to disco-cosmic recordings since
it practically takes off on its own with a galactic like edge. |
 |
|
• Rhythm Of the Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - DeBarge
Digital Emotion is an electronic disco project from The Netherlands
– produced by Adams & Fleisner. The group is Cickie De Beer, Jean
François Colombo and Myrna Balrak. Their music from the mid-80’s and
onto the millennium brought a sound that was fully electronic yet
powerful and infectious. “Humanity” is a single from their 1984
self-titled project and is another example of the outline you can
find in this explosion of synths and roaring sci-fi effects. One of
the high energy periods that the 80’s made a classic stamp with the
energy projects as these brought to the dance floors. |
 |
|
• Humanity - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Digital Emotion
Digital Emotion is an electronic disco project from The Netherlands
– produced by Adams & Fleisner. The group is Cickie De Beer, Jean
François Colombo and Myrna Balrak. Their music from the mid-80’s and
onto the millennium brought a sound that was fully electronic yet
powerful and infectious. “Humanity” is a single from their 1984
self-titled project and is another example of the outline you can
find in this explosion of synths and roaring sci-fi effects. One of
the high energy periods that the 80’s made a classic stamp with the
energy projects as these brought to the dance floors. |
 |
|
• Tonights The Night (Good Time) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kleeer
Kleeer is a disco/funk band featuring Eric Rohrbaugh, Isabelle
Coles, Melanie Moore, Norman Durham, Paul Crutchfield, Richard Lee,
Terry Dolphin, Woody Cunningham and Yvette Flowers. Their big disco
hit “Keeep Your Body Workin'” from 1978 gave this ensemble a step
into the success of a single which crossed over between disco and
funk. The project titled “I Love To Dance” released in 1979
contained the track “Tonight's The Night (Good Time)” which
resonates with the grooves which were aimed with a nightlife anthem
in mind. |
 |
|
• Last Call - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jolo
Jolo is Jo-Carol and Lauren Carter – previously The Patrick Cowley
Singers and a duo who delivered high-energy work throughout the
mid-80s. “Last Call” is their 1984 single produced by Barry Beam and
John Hedges on the Megatone Records label. This piece is an
extraordinary work of beautiful riffs and the longing desires of the
night world and playing the scene where the closing of the night
only begins after hours. One of the singles from that year which
plays out smoothly yet full of energy to pulsate over the dance
floor. The production is a keyboard and drum fantasy and work up to
a crescendo for the divas to build their notes to. |
 |
|
• Go Get It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Metropolis
Metropolis is a 1978 disco project produced by Thor Baldursson and
Tom Moulton. It features the trio of Barbara Ingram, Carla Benson
and Evette Benton known as The Sweethearts Of Sigma – and also for
adoring man of disco music’s hits from the mid-to-late 70’s. “Go Get
It” is a funky disco track that uses the rhythm guitars as its main
groove and then builds with a horn section which takes over from
there. The piece is a track from their “The Greatest Show On Earth”
project and reflects the early sounds of disco maturing into a new
period of dance music. |
 |
|
• Potential New Boyfriend - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dolly Parton
The Art Of Noise is a British experimental pop group featuring Anne
Dudley, Gary Langan, Paul Morley and Trevor Horn. Their music was an
excursion into the sampled street style of music taking on its own.
Their initial release titled “Who's Afraid Of The Art Of Noise” from
1984 contained their abstract title “Close (To The Edit)” which
became an instant underground hit. The arrangement consists of
pieces of recorded sounds (samples) being laid out a rhythmic parts
and segments of melodies. The track like their many aims to work
this new genre is infectious and leaves to mind an unfinished yet
satisfying experience. Their work is somewhat of a masterful touch
of engineering for the mixdown process. |
 |
|
• Close (To The Edit) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Art Of Noise
The Art Of Noise is a British experimental pop group featuring Anne
Dudley, Gary Langan, Paul Morley and Trevor Horn. Their music was an
excursion into the sampled street style of music taking on its own.
Their initial release titled “Who's Afraid Of The Art Of Noise” from
1984 contained their abstract title “Close (To The Edit)” which
became an instant underground hit. The arrangement consists of
pieces of recorded sounds (samples) being laid out a rhythmic parts
and segments of melodies. The track like their many aims to work
this new genre is infectious and leaves to mind an unfinished yet
satisfying experience. Their work is somewhat of a masterful touch
of engineering for the mixdown process. |
 |
|
• I Love Men - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cinema
Cinema is a high energy dance project from producer, Warren Schatz
who wrote, arranged and produced this disc. The 80’s high energy
scene was always giving the touch of disco a lingering sound on
dance floors. “I Love Men” is another take on the hedonism of the
male figure and taking it to heart with a love sonnet placed on a
fast dance track. This one plays out as a deep fantasy or desire for
thought that takes up much of her time. The production from Schatz
gives us plenty of the dramatic strings that sweeten this track and
also a very nice harpsichord sound for the majestic feel of the
dance theme. |
 |
|
• When Will I See You Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Magda Layna
Madga Layna is an artist who was a part of the resurgence of disco
music in the early 80’s via San Francisco producer, Bill Motley –
who also produced Boys Town Gang, Lisa and Margaret Reynolds. His
dedication to the sound of disco productions is a period where his
music created the lush strings of soaring dance tracks along with
the funky guitars and heavy percussion. Magda Layna’s cover of The
Three Degrees hit, “When Will I See You Again” is another feat where
Motley scored with a more downbeat version in 1983. The sweet
essence of the song remains intact along with the added synthesizers
and drum breaks to give it that dance floor feel. One of the San
Francisco disco classics from the classic Megatone Record label. |
 |
|
• Star - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Claudio Mingardi
Claudio Mingardi is an Italian singer who released his single “Star”
in 1983 – produced by Roberto Zanetti. The track is one if the
adventurous pieces with the energy which makes the 80’s reflect as
the high energy dance era. This track is more mid-tempo however the
rolling bass sequence accents the level of power it creates. The
theme is more of an imaginary hero who brings the sweetness in the
chorus to life. The single was always an early evening warm up for
me in my sets to bring on the energy as the evening progressed. A
very nice and melodic feel give this one a nice purpose to keep the
energy alive. |
 |
|
• Duri Duri (Baila Baila) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - click
click! is an 80’s synth-pop ensemble featuring Adriana Camacho,
Claudia Given and Rocio Sobrado – and produced by Alan Coelho
(Tapps) and Hernani Raposo. The theme of their music featured Latin
compositions to a synthesized dance pop beat. “Duri Duri (Baila
Baila)” is their 1987 single from their project “Con Amor Para Ti”.
A piece following the high energy sound of the mid and late 80’s
with the senoritas serenading us throughout the number. An
infectious vocal is the lead in of the song and brings to mind a
celebration from then on. One of the big hits in my club and a very
popular T-Dance song. |
 |
|
• I Won't Let Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The System
The System is David Frank and Mic Murphy – an 80’s duo who brought
to life the sexy and |
 |
|
• Fly Like An Eagle - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Habit
Habit is Nick Amour, Andy Carroll and Mick Martin. This trio created
a deep house sound which became the staple of many cover-songs
during the late 80’s. “Fly Like An Eagle” is their bass-driven
effort on the Steve Miller Band rock classic from 1976. This
production moves below the surface with a deep bass synth rolling
over the houses drums kicking away. It is an effective transition to
the dance floor of the early 90’s and brings back that fantasy edge
this song always produced. |
 |
|
• Angel You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Primadonna
Primadonna is Giorgio Dolce, Miyuki Irie and Stefania Dal Pino – an
Italo-disco group from the mid-80s. The tempting sound of
Italo-disco made the 80s more of a lyrical place on dance floors.
“Angel You” is their 1986 single – produced by Giorgio Dolce and
living up to the soft and melodic delivery which brought dance
floors a sway and gentle release with this concoction of sound.
“Angel You” has several hooks that work the beauty into a nice
variation of love song meets a mystery. It has that vibrato lead
vocal which teases from the first note. This one was always of
favorite of mine and my dance floor. |
 |
|
• I Can't Wait - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nu Shooz
Nu Shooz is Danny Schauffler, John Smith, Rick Waritz and Valerie
Day – an 80’s dance group whose big 1985 hit “I Can’t Wait” is one
of the most distinguishable songs from the time period. Thanks to
the sample riffs which are layered in this impatient theme of lovers
giving way to the excitement of love. The track produced by The
Drone Bros. is a slick r&b feel number that captures the groove from
the start. It is one of the classics which remain a memory of good
times and once again the delivery of dance music which only purpose
is to move your feet. |
 |
|
• Camino Al Destino (Wishbone) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tantra
Tantra is an Italian disco project from producer Quelli Del Castello
and Celso Valli arranging. This innovative studio project was
heavily influenced by the Euro-disco sound of the late 70’s and gave
Tantra the freedom to give their music hypnotic and morphing
arrangements. A year after their first project the 2 side long
tracks were released on a 12” and recorded in Spanish. These covers
of both “Hills Of Kat Mandu” and “Wishbone” were more of a
collector’s gift and the presence only signifies the creative
freedom Valli and producers unleashed. “Camino Al Destino
(Wishbone)” is the version of a song which resembles knowledge from
ones past soul and is placed with a mysterious sitar and Flamenco
rolling guitars. One of the intriguing pieces of this one where the
lyrics delve into a journey of a life here and after. |
 |
|
• Breakout - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Swing Out Sister
Swing Out Sister is Andy Connell and Corinne Drewery – an 80’s group
whom transferred the magic of beautiful jazz lounge into a dance
pill. Their big single “Breakout” from 1986 is one of the most
memorable and paints a picture of the ominous end-of-the-week
sensation that comes over us and delivers it in a lovely message.
Vocals are the main layer here with a resonance of Sade’s
introduction to pop and how they changed the map for music. This one
is a nice them song for that night out where you can refrain
yourself while letting go. |
 |
|
• Burn In His Hands - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - P.Lion
P.Lion (Pietro Paolo Pelandi) is an Italo-disco artist whose career
began at the start of early Italo-disco sound. The early sounds of
his work were the portrayal of the uplifting and imaginative sound
of the early 80’s scene from Italy and gave him the chisel of the
electronic disco sound. In the 1991 Italo-house/techno piece “Burn
In His Hands” this artist releases a whole new energy onto the dance
floor in a new concept and placement. Using supposed vocal segments
from Mahalia Jackson’s “He’s Got The Whole World In His Hands”
(“burn in his hands”) he creates a fierce “carnival style piece that
builds and builds with only a few segments of sampled vocals. It is
one of my favorites and a lump of samples I could never get out of
my head after hearing for the first time. |
 |
|
• I Want A Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bonnie Forman
Bonnie Forman is a high energy vocalist from the 80’s whose initial
success came with her productions with producer, Bobby Orlando (The
Flirts, Waterfront Home, Hotline, WOW, Oh! Romeo). Her 1984 release
“”I Want A Man” is one the most memorable of her HI-NRG tracks since
it is the perfect edge for her voice. Given the directness of her
desires we are commanded by this fast moving electronic dance piece.
It has all of the keyboard staples which Orlando created
specifically his brand and this one makes the floor move on its own. |
 |
|
• Gimme, Gimme, Gimme - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Three Degrees
The Three Degrees and Stock, Aitken and Waterman in 1985 – “Gimme,
Gimme, Gimme”. The efforts of the trio of hit masters and the lovely
voice of this ensemble were a close return to the disco edge of “The
Runner” and their high-energy sassy delivery. The 80’s took the
piece into a more into the pop-synth arena yet the energy thanks to
the vocals gives off that magnificent disco era feel. The song is a
teasing promise of love with the delivery of the goods and has the
drive of a classic sexy disco classic. |
 |
|
• Miss Me Blind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Culture Club
Culture Club is an iconic 80’s band and their music gave the scene
and the generation an identity. “Miss Me Blind” from their 1983
project titled “Colour By Numbers” – produced by Steve Levine. The
track is another one of lead singer, Boy George and his vocal
mysticism of the time. His gentle yet directed emotion always gave
these tracks a fullness that was more like a love anthem. The band
also includes Jon Moss, Michael Craig and Roy Hay – who along with
the outline of a new direction for music and the “culture”
formulated the 80’s into a memorable place that was uplifting and
yet provoking. |
 |
|
• The Age Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Age Of Love
Age Of Love is Bruno Sanchioni and Giuseppe Chierchia – an Italian
based techno project which their first single “The Age Of Love” from
1990 brought the attention to the techno and new trance movement.
The piece is eclectic in its formulation where many sounds and
vibrations play part in the rhythm. As experimental as Kraftwerk was
in the mid-70s. The track has mystic feel to its somewhat
claustrophobic groove yet plays out with a hypnotic effect – which
in turn became the sound of trance music throughout the 90’s. |
 |
|
• Dirty Looks - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Diana Ross
Diana Ross made Motown a classic sound for girl groups along with
The Supremes in the 60’s and throughout the 70s she found her new
title “The Boss” in disco music. In the 80’s her venture made a new
place for her move on 80’s pop-dance tracks. “Dirty Looks” is from
the project “Red Hot Rhythm and Blues” from 1987 and is produced by
Tom Dowd. This track plays with the sexy innuendo and gives our lady
a chance to use her vocals with a lure and sexy edge. It has the
heavy percussion which makes the dance floor the perfect landing and
as this number continues on it takes off with Diana’s sexy overture. |
 |
|
• Dolce Vita - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ryan Paris
Ryan Paris is an Italian singer whose and one of the early voices of
early 80’s Italo-disco which gave the style an identity. His music
along with producer Pierluigi Giombini helped to set the stage for
the sound of dance music which would take a new place in dance
history. “Dolce Vita” is a single from 1983 and perhaps one of his
most haunting. This piece is a level of celebratory remembrance and
emotion which transforms itself into a majestic piano concerto at
times. It contains the 80’s dance feel and logic of the stamp that
Italo-disco would be proud and influence many new artists to take
the opportunity to be as creative. |
 |
|
• It All Comes Down To Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stainless Steal
Stainless Steal is a disco project from producer Pete Bellotte
(Donna Summer, Trax) and arranger Geoff Bastow (K.I.D.) and features
a full-on orchestrated disco ensemble. The project is centered on a
disco version of “Can-Can” and in many ways a following of the disco
themed projects. More of the studio work here is layers and layers
of strings, horns along with the heavy disco beat and funky rhythm
guitars. “It All Comes Down To Love” is a segment of grooves with a
disco chorus enlightening a message that resonates throughout the
piece. The flowing strings make this one almost a symphonic
experience. It is another one of those dance numbers that pulls the
groove out and stretched it beyond its label. |
 |
|
• Love Thang - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - First Choice
First Choice is a trio featuring Annette Guest, Debbie Martin and
Rochelle Fleming. Their 1978 album “Hold Your Horses” is one the
disco banquets of the time period. Produced by Tom Moulton, Norman
Harris and McKinley Jackson this project was a shining example of
who delivered during the peak of the disco music explosion. “Love
Thang” is the funky piece which plays out appropriately for the
ladies and their soulful pipes. It is a touch of the disco sound
bringing the elements that have been polished from the early 70’s.
|
 |
|
• Let Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - France Joli
France Joli became of the disco music’s gem and the start of her
career became the flame that burned on in discotheques from the
release of her classic “Come To Me” in 1979. This powerhouse project
was produced by Tony Green and featured some of the best performers
of disco music from the near past, The Sweethearts of Sigma and
future bloomers including Denis LePage (Lime). “Let Go” is the
second cut from the project and is the girl-talk ad-libs of a bad
relationship and feeling early remorse over ending it. This one is
as outlined as disco music allows and gives of the power of the bass
and strings in the disco music genre. France also delivers a
wonderful vocal which gives of the pain that the theme is intended
to outline. |
 |
|
• Melting Pot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Soundblast
Soundblast is a Canadian studio disco band who covers Booker T & The
MG's 1971 soul/psychedelic instrumental “Melting Pot”. The remake
released on Uniwave Records in 1980 is a groove with more downbeats
and a vocoder added for the technology advance effect. This one has
a true allegiance with more determination on the climbing bridge
which almost feels gospel backed with the keyboards blaring out
their refrain. It is a nice taste of the past roots of soul and
where the groove began to educate those involved with a more
underground dance experience. |
 |
|
• Into The Groove - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madonna
Madonna released the single “Into The Groove” in 1985 and was
featuring in the soundtrack “Desperately Seeking Susan” – a film she
also starred in. The single was produced by Madonna and Steve Bray.
It is one of my favorite tracks from that year as it has an
infectious groove and also lifts the spirits with its positive
message. The song became one of the top dance chart entries and also
helped to give Madonna a new iconic track to her fans. This one has
the simple keyboard ruffs that echo the 80’s sound yet the
dedication that Madonna gives to her tracks makes it even more of a
dance floor move. |
 |
|
• I Need Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Novencento
Gazuzu is a production from Cat Music (Adams & Fleisner) a Dutch
electronic dance team. Their music is always in the realm of
lighthearted fantasy and play – and always with a heavy drum beat.
It is the lighter side to disco Calypso with an ensemble assisting
in the chorus and ad-libs. “Go Go Gorilla” is their 1984 track from
their self-titled album. The theme here is a zoo-keeper who returns
late at night to find the inhabitants partying on down in a funky
way. An escape in a way that disco music created in the late70’s
with a theme and concept. This one is only sheer fun with some kick
ass beats and claps programmed for dancing. |
 |
|
• Go Go Gorilla - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gazuzu
Gazuzu is a production from Cat Music (Adams & Fleisner) a Dutch
electronic dance team. Their music is always in the realm of
lighthearted fantasy and play – and always with a heavy drum beat.
It is the lighter side to disco Calypso with an ensemble assisting
in the chorus and ad-libs. “Go Go Gorilla” is their 1984 track from
their self-titled album. The theme here is a zoo-keeper who returns
late at night to find the inhabitants partying on down in a funky
way. An escape in a way that disco music created in the late70’s
with a theme and concept. This one is only sheer fun with some kick
ass beats and claps programmed for dancing. |
 |
|
• D.J. I Wanna Be Your Record - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Moulin Rouge
Moulin Rouge is a Slovenian group whose sound follows the
Italo-disco fare of the early and mid-80’s. Their 1988 release “D.J.
I Wanna Be Your Record” is one of that years which so few were
successful high energy which were memorable. This uplifting track
has the rolling bass with a few breakdowns which work well in the
flow of Italo-disco and makes a mark of course with the titled
“D.J.” included. It does have several riffs that mark a memorable
dance experience for that peak set. Produced by Fabio Sparago, Kosi
Matiage and Riccardo Persi – the full-on electronic arrangement is
broken into parts with samples and catchy verse interactions. |
 |
|
• Love Hangover - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Players Association
The Players Association is a disco/funk ensemble lead by producer,
Danny Weiss. One of the early signs of soul and funk emulating a new
sound that was fully dedicated to the dance floors of the time.
Similar to The Salsoul Orchestra with more of that jamming essence
in arrangements and production. “Love Hangover” is their
instrumental cover of Diana Ross’ big soul classic from 1976 a year
following its success. This recording is a full on instrumental as a
live band would project its sensual allure. The layout is identical
yet minus Ross’ sex appeal. It is from their first self-titled
release. The disco history is all contained in bands like The
Players Association and the lure of many who were curious of what
disco music was or was becoming is a big part of this sound. |
 |
|
• It's Inevitable - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Charlie
Charlie is rock band from London, England formed in 1971 and
released their seventh, self-titled album in 1983 – produced by
Kevin Beamish and Terry Thomas. “It’s Inevitable” is a single from
the project which was also released as a 12” dance single. With an
electronic path leading the rocked guitars into a dance arena this
track depends widely on the lead vocal which gives way to that 80’s
edge called DOR. It pulsates a vibration from the start and makes a
nice fusion for 80’s dance and rock combined. The powerful 12”
version makes for most the songs long and alluring qualities here
for the dance floor. A great crossover and fusion for the 80’s. |
 |
|
• Hungry For Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bad Boys Blue
Bad Boys Blue is Andrew Thomas, Trevor Taylor and John McInerney – a
trio who started their fame in Europe in 1985. “Hungry For Love” is
a single released in 1988 – produced by Tony Hendrik & Karin
Hartmann. This love song is a yearning for a feel and emotion with a
touch of that club anthem energy. The orchestral strikes are the
introduction which makes this one feel like it is climbing the peaks
of the mirror balls above. It has always been a favorite of mine and
received allot of response from my dance floors during its release. |
 |
|
• Envy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rinder and Lewis
W. Michael Lewis and Laurin Rinder are pioneers of the disco sound
and may have been one of the deciding factors on relying on disc
jockeys and dance floors to help shape the sound of genre itself.
“Seven Deadly Sins” is their 1977 release which outlines exactly
what the title says in a disco fluent style that plays out in their
discotheque lounge style. “Envy” is the focus of this ReStructure
Mix and is replayed with an edit of the second part of this piece
titled “Animal Fire”. The flow of the instrumental parts remains the
sound that Lewis and Rinder were known for and became their unique
gift to disco history. |
 |
|
• Love Waves - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patty Heart
Patty Heart is a German dance project from producers Andy Free and
Jozef Smits. This hard ponding piece has some nice electronic dance
qualities including the defiant lead vocal which at times reminded
me of an 80’s rock anthem on an imaginary theme. “Love Waves” is a
yearning for that last minute love opportunity as the night grows
older and the meaning become disturbing. This piece is laid out into
segments with pull on a keyboard riff and a male chorus shouts out
that echoes into the night. It is one of my favorite underground
early-morning songs and has a nice mystique about itself. |
 |
|
• Love Oasis - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patris
Patris is an electronic dance project from producers Craig Peyton
and Nelson Cruz – and released on the New York dance label,
Emergency Records in 1985. The vocals by Patris here are soft and
subtle yet the beats pound out the ominous search for that “love
oasis” at the end of the day. One of the nice synth-pop pieces with
a direct hardcore club feel. This one compares to a Latin-free style
with more emphasis on the drop beats. Nice segments into a
rock-styled guitar break which bring the essence of a nice fusion on
board. |
 |
|
• Fancy Dancer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gregg Diamond's Star Cruiser
Star Cruiser is a studio project from producer Gregg Diamond (Andrea
True Connection, Bionic Boogie, Hardware) from 1978 and released on
Henry Stone’s Marlin Records label. The project highlights not only
Diamond’s studio magic in creating a slick sound for disco but also
features in this vocal ensemble, Diva Gray, Gordon Grody, Jocelyn
Brown and Zach Sanders. “Fancy Dancer” is the low groove which
Diamond created with his early production of “More, More, More” by
Andrea True Connection – a sound called “boogie music” and
eventually “disco”. Diva Gray is the lead on this one and gives off
the early injection of disco funk crossover in the chic-est sense.
It is not hard to understand how Gray was transformed into many
studio projects including Lemon, Oyster and he solo career. |
 |
|
• All Right Now - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Witch Queen
Two Minds Crack are David Hewson, Kevin Jones, Mark Davies and Pete
Martin – an 80’s synth-pop band who released their album titled “The
Victory Parade” in 1986. The project included a single “Cry Cry Cry”
which was a post killer 80’s dance track with many elements that
mark it as an unforgettable piece. The guitar and drum effects are
the slamming side of this dance track and the vocals are a subtle
New-Romantic edge leading the song into that soaring mode. The song
did quite well in clubs who favored the high energy sound and made
the band unforgettable even though there was never a follow-up
album. |
 |
|
• Cry Cry Cry - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Two Minds Crack
Two Minds Crack are David Hewson, Kevin Jones, Mark Davies and Pete
Martin – an 80’s synth-pop band who released their album titled “The
Victory Parade” in 1986. The project included a single “Cry Cry Cry”
which was a post killer 80’s dance track with many elements that
mark it as an unforgettable piece. The guitar and drum effects are
the slamming side of this dance track and the vocals are a subtle
New-Romantic edge leading the song into that soaring mode. The song
did quite well in clubs who favored the high energy sound and made
the band unforgettable even though there was never a follow-up
album. |
 |
|
• If You Love Somebody Set Them Free - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sting
Sting is Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner is a musician, songwriter and
singer who is also known at the start of his career with the band,
The Police. His solo ventures in the mid-and late 80’s includes his
single “If You Love Somebody Set Them Free” from 1985. Produced by
Pete Smith and Sting this track resonates as one of Sting’s profound
pieces with a dire message of love and life. This one made dance
floors take note with the 12” versions which brought the track an
immediate success. This one plays out just as a heartfelt message
which brings solace to the mind and feet. |
 |
|
• What's In It For Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Zalmac featuring Zulema
Zalmac is Al MacDowell along with Zulema Cusseaux (”Change”)
released in 1982 and defining a new period for dance music in the
early 80s in a New York soul depiction. Having soul-diva Zulema on
board is a big lift for the sound itself as she represented an
untapped soulful edge during her solo-career. “What’s In It For Me”
is a single from the project titled “Whatcha Gonna Do” and is one
piece that gives several surprises – the theme of a distant lover
assisting in survenlance to a secret love whose interest is
detained. Zulema performs this one with all of her power and mite
and helps bring this street-sound to a new level. It is one of my
favorite underground hits and always made my dance floor go “boom”
early in those evenings. |
 |
|
• Action Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - V.I.S.A.
V.I.S.A. is an Italian disco project from producers Angelo
Piccarreta & Felix Music Production – with arranger Celso Valli
bringing his style to the project. This one is very reminiscent of
the 1979 session titled, Nuggets. Lots of disco orchestrations that
blare like a Village People number from the late 70’s. The album
titled “San Francisco” is one the complete Italian disco pieces
which encompass that celebratory edge which disco music thrived on.
“Action Tonight” is a cut from this album which has the feel of a
love song transformed into a Main Street parade. It gives way to the
wonderful chorus which is very reminiscent of Peter Jacques Band.
Disco gem this one shines as the memory and influence of disco
continues. |
|
|
• That's When (We'll Be Free) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - State Of Grace
State Of Grace is an 80’s synth-pop band consisting of Adrian
Thomas, David Inglesfield and Pat Thomas. Their 1982 single “That’s
When (We’ll Be Free)” is one of their memorable pieces which
utilizes a heavy bass beat and light spotty keyboard layers to
execute the rhythm. It was produced by Lawrence Burrage and the band
itself. This one gives way to a promise of freedom as the night
progresses and every in store is positive and momentum. A nice
crossover number for either early evening or early morning. |
 |
|
• Hold Me, Squeeze Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Michele
Michele is a studio project from producer, Pierre Jaubert –
featuring vocals by Chantal Sitruk (Chantal Curtis). The album
“Magic Love” is one of the early disco solutions to make the clubs
excited to worship that dance floor nightly. “Hold Me, Squeeze Me”
is a single from the project which caught my attention with the sexy
chorus riff that seemed to be all that disco music was an
interpretation for. The backup vocals are performed by The
Sweethearts of Sigma and are the staple of the 70’s not only as they
were heard on many studio sessions – but they were also so darn
perfect for the disco fling. This track was a single from the album
and I am sure had allot to do with the success of early disco music. |
 |
|
• Bahia - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - El Coco
El Coco is W. Michael Lewis and Lauren Rinder - duo who began
working with disco music in 1975 with their first album titled
“Brazil”. A dance ode to the lounge sound of the 50’s with a
rhythmic beat enticing the sweet melodies and heavy percussion.
“Bahia” is a track from their first album and is a masterpiece of
wonderful “mall music” in its own formation. The tropical theme
explodes here with the flowing of keyboards and the drifting
percussion. It is a masterful take on the early disco sound where an
orchestra is being led on the dance floor once again in a new way.
One of my personal favorites from El Coco and one of the geniuses of
theirs from the start. |
 |
|
• Watch Your Step - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Anita Baker
Anita Baker is a blues/soul vocalist who brought a gift to the end
of the 80’s with her album “Rapture” – produced by Michael J.
Powell. The track “Watch Your Step” was always one of interest to
those club jocks who were enamored by this voice which became the
new artists that immediate demanded attention. The track is a
soulful r&b number that resonates thanks to Anita’s incredible vocal
style. It is one which brings to mind the crossover necessary for
artist to create a track for clubs at this time. |
 |
|
• Sister Power - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sister Power
Sister Power is a disco project from producer Paul Sabu (Debbie
Jacobs, Sabu, Ann Margret) who takes the best of disco and brings it
to another level. The group is headed by vocalist Gwen Jonae who
also brings to mind the Sabu outline where a powerful female voice
works his music. The project from 1979 is one of the fabulous
concept groups for the play of disco all around. “Sister Power” is a
track that introduces the ensemble as they describe their direction
and funky means – it is a track that has layers of Sabu’s rock-edged
keyboards and guitar riffs that echo his style. This one has always
been a favorite with the strings leading my ears and heart and along
with Gwen’s vocals it is priceless. |
 |
|
• Seduction - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Val Young
Val Young (Valaria Marie Young) is an artist who worked with George
Clinton (Funkadelic), Roy Ayers and The Gap Band. Her solo career
began in 1985 with her project “Seduction” – produced by Rick James.
This electro-funk exercise is a laid out groove and offers the
enticing sound of Val’s breathy vocal. The keyboards are the sound
that Rick James uses in a push-and-pull style and is adapted well in
the 80’s funk piece. There is a cameo from Mr. James which plays out
to bring this song to the next level. |
 |
|
• The Dream - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Irene Cara
Irene Cara is a singer and actress who brought some big hits to
dance floors at the end of the 70’s ( ”Fame”) and the start of the
80’s (“Flashdance…What A Feelin’”). Her music along with disco
producer Giorgio Moroder is another shot at capturing that disco
anthem track as in “The Dream” from 1983. Along the lines of a
struggle to make one’s dreams come true with the soaring chorus and
the big lead-ins. This one was also featured in the film, “D.C. Cab”
from the same year. The Moroder/Cara blend is one that brings to
mind the 80’s in the spotlight sense. |
 |
|
• In The Sky - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Loose End
Loose End is a project from Eddie Amoo and Chris Amoo – a single
with a fusion of funk/soul and a touch of modern jazz. “In The Sky”
released in 1982 is an uplifting love song with a beautiful vocal
which flows as if it were lifted by a summer breeze. One of the
pieces which display a use of a jazz influence with funk rhythms. A
great after-hours number which surges the dance floor into a fantasy
world. Lead vocals are provided by Jane Eugene who made her star
shine in the projects with Loose Ends (with the ‘s’). |
 |
|
• Drives Me Crazy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Jacques Band
Peter Jacques Band are a piece of disco history that has a beginning
and an end. Their first release from 1978 is a project which helped
to shape disco music and prepare it for the electronic Fusion coming
at the end of the 70s .”Drives Me Crazy” is from their 1985 album
title “Dancing In The Streets” produced by Jacques Fred Petrus . The
production feels more of a mid-tempo energy but still have the hooks
that the Peter Jacques Band has been known for. It was a favorite of
mine during its release and a resurgence for the group to keep their
name in disco music alive . |
 |
|
• Livin' It Up (Friday Night) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bell and James
Leroy M. Bell and Casey James are a duo who released three projects.
Their debut album featured a single which became a dance floor hit
the instant it was laid down – “Livin’ It Up (Friday Night)” from
1978 is one of the iconic songs of the disco era. The production is
the stripped down funky arrangements which made the pop-edge of
disco music irresistible. This one has the vocals that also resonate
of the 70s male figure in disco and funk. The two also are credited
for writing the disco hit “This Time Baby” recorded by Jackie Moore
in 1979. |
 |
|
• The One - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lipps Inc.
Lipps Inc. is producer Steve Greenberg and vocalist Cynthia
saved the 80s from a complete sanity. The feel of their music always
contained the dose of freeing the serious brain into a disco
insanity. “The One” comes from their third project from 1981 titled
“Designer Music” and is one of the hidden gems from this ensemble. A
killer thump bass riff makes this track hit the mark as soon as the
plucking begins. Cynthia Johnson takes the disco edge to a new side
of funk with endless energy. This one was always a favorite and
still makes me listen sometimes more than dance. |
 |
|
• Sea Hunt - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Cowley
Patrick Cowley is pioneer of mastering the layer of electronic
sounds over dance rhythms. It may have been Giorgio Moroder’ s
creation of “I Feel Love” which evoked Cowley’s journey to find the
center of the disco beat through swirling effects. In 1981 his
project, “Megatron Man” was a turning point for electronic dance
music and disco music in general. Included in this package is a
cover of the theme from the1958 television show “Sea Hunt”. The
composition by David Rose is disco-fied and given several new levels
of mystique as Cowley brings on Carol McMackin, Jo-Carol Block and
Lauren Carter (Jo-Lo) to create a haunting vocal that emulates the
wailing of the goddess of the sea. The disco version also integrates
an electronic castanet sound giving it a rather interesting fusion. |
 |
|
• Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Suzy Q
Suzy Q is Michelle Mills in 1981 project titled “With Your Love” and
is produced by Jerry Cucuzzella (Nightlife Unlimited). “Tonight” is
one of the singles which helps to set this set on fire as it
contains many of the hooks that make the electronic 80’s futuristic
and rhythmic as it can get. The piece gives Suzy Q an opportunity to
pour her heart to a lover who she is excited to reunite with on the
nightlife frontier. This one has the entire keyboard riffs move it
from one end of the dance floor to another. One of the hidden gems
of this project and now an outline for that 80’s electro-sound. |
 |
|
• Open Your Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madonna
Madonna’s 1986 project titled “True Blue” was perhaps her most
adorable in the synth-pop arena. “Open Your Heart” is an
irresistible track that has the yearning and appealing love call as
any of her recordings. The song is one of my favorites during the
Madonna 80’s rein and gives me to this time how her timing in music
has always been “on time” and “to the point”. |
 |
|
• Playing For Time - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madleen Kane
Madleen Kane is the beauty behind many big disco hits. Her music has
always surprised as her talent and dedication to become involved in
creative process. “Playing For Time” is from Madleen’s 1981 project
produced by disco-pioneer and innovator, Giorgio Moroder. The early
80’s were a challenging time for disco artists heading their music
in a new direction. Madleen is one of the artists who seem to
overcome this hurdle and much of her 80’s productions were
successful in her iconic past and moved her following along with
her. The Moroder production on the project “Don’t Wanna Lose You”
gives Madleen the synth-pop edge which emanated success and proof
that the 80’s had not shifted dance floors far from home. |
 |
|
• To My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mark Farina
Mark Farina (Mauro Farina) is an Italian producer/artist whose
recording career gave a new resurgence to the Italo-disco period of
the mid-80s. “To My Heart” is his single from 1988 and is one of the
most beautiful dance pieces to fade onto dance floors. The
production hits hard with the beats and percussion and there is more
layered in this one to bring it out above the rest. The lovely
guitar accompaniments add a nice feel which gives it a lasting
attraction. One of my favorites of that period and a fast
floor-packer for me. |
 |
|
• You Can Win If You Want - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Modern Talking
Modern Talking are Dieter Bohlen and Thomas Anders. Their music is
perhaps one of the golden moments in dance music. Their sound
utilizes heavy beat soften by a bass accompaniment which became the
80’s dance formula and magic. The sweetness of their songs is
another lure to their talents and even though the themes may be
quite simple they are delivered with a romantic edge on vocals. “You
Can Win If You Want” comes from their 1985 project titled, “The 1st
Album” – this one has their signature riff which is a chorus riff
and a nice supportive tale of a love who ventures off to discover
ones future. And even though the divide will be difficult there are
the positive words for success. |
 |
|
Kim Carnes’ is a singer who took a turn to dance floors following
her big pop-single “Bette Davis Eyes” from 1981. Her voice is
recognizable in her music and gives off a unique feel and genuine
edge. “You Make My Heart Beat Faster (And That’s All That Matters)”
comes from her 1983 album titled “Café Racers” – produced by Keith
Olsen. This fast paced synth-pop number is unforgettable with its
many hooks and the main console which is Kim’s vocal. It climbs with
the bass pumping out the energy and dedication to the romance here.
The 80’s has this sound plastered over the dance floors and this
track brings the best of it alive. |
 |
|
• I Will Find You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mohikana
Mohikana is a trance version of Clannad’s “I Will Find You” from
1992 and displays the power of 90’s electronic dance music. The
reiterating verses echo in a smooth and translucent feel throughout
this production. The vocal by Mohikana is a spiritual experience in
itself and with the pounding drums among this track is moving. A
nice transition for a ballad and adding enough energy to give the
new mode a satisfying effect. |
 |
|
• Somebody Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Alexis
Alexis is an Italian disco project from producer Giacomo Maiolini
and his 1991 single “Somebody Tonight” features vocals from Emanuela
'Taleesa' Gubinelli. This piece is a fast moving dance floor piece
which for its time created the continuum for the high energy or then
labeled Euro-dance stay alive. The outline on the hooks on this
track resembles Pet Shop Boys’ “Always On My Mind” with its crashing
symphonic pieces. The outline of this one is a night out on the town
knowing that somewhere – someone will be waiting to take the blues
from this heroine. |
 |
|
• I Don't Want To Be With Nobody Else - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Alton McClain and Destiny
Alton McClain and Destiny are D'Marie Warren, Robyrda Stiger and of
course, Alton. This trio brought a nice blend of soulful vocals to a
polished disco and r&b sound. Their second album titled “More Of
You” from 1979 is another supreme display of their beautiful
harmonies as well as Alton’s incredible play with phrases. It had
been since The Emotions burst onto the soul music scene that the
excitement was met. “I Don’t Want To Be With Somebody Else” is
another cut with gives the ladies another opportunity to work the
groove. It is a slick love song with a few of the best vocal
arrangements of these talented ladies. |
|
|
• Like An Old Time Melody - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Teresa
Teresa is a vocalist who is featured here along with producer, Sandy
Linzer (Cory Daye, Odyssey, Dr. Buzzard's Original "Savannah" Band)
and also Paul Shaffer arranging. The project titled “Class Reunion”
is a big-band retro feel project much like the “Savannah Band”
outline. “Like An Old Time Melody” is a dreamy torch number with a
flowing with saxophones and clarinets and along with the sultry
vocal it makes its mark. A beautiful touch with the layered backing
vocals which bring to life the smooth edge. |
 |
|
• State Of Independence - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Donna Summer made the 70’s the disco era and also took the 80’s with
a new sound which she displays as natural as her ability to vocalize
her music. Along with Quincy Jones her 1982 album self-titled album
featured a more rhythm and blues pop sound on many tracks and a few
surprises – “State Of Independence” is a track written by Jon
Anderson and Vangelis. This world beat/new age song is rebuilt by
Donna and delivers the voice and energy in this percolating anthem.
The track has the touches which Quincy Jones is known for and also
gives Donna the opportunity to make this piece her own in many ways. |
 |
|
• Really Sayin' Somethin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bananarama
Bananarama is Keren Woodward, Sarah Dallin and Siobhan Fahey – a
trio from the 80’s dance scene whose lasting aura exists even today.
The girl group with the 80’s appeal brought many dance floor hits in
the mid and late 80’s. “Really Sayin’ Somethin’” is their 1982
release produced by Dave Jordan and Fun Boy Three (who also
accompany the ladies on this single). This cover of The Velvelettes
1964 hit single is laid over a heavy tribal drum fare which makes
this piece a nice piece of 80’s dance. The vocals are light and
sweet and use each drum break as freshener. |
 |
|
• Blue Monday - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - New Order
New Order is Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, Stephen Morris and Gillian
Gilbert – a band from UK whose big dance hit “Blue Monday” from 1983
brought an innovative hard-edged groove to life in an underground
display of warped keyboards and thumping beats. The piece became an
instant hit and gave the band the notoriety and label as the
new-metal sound of dance music. The band created a new edge to dance
music with their sound as Depeche Mode and Yaz had pronounced. |
 |
|
• Love Me In The Moonlight (Lay Your Body Down) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Valentine French
Valentine French is a disco project from Eugene Moule and John
Mealing – and features vocalist Patricia Snaric on sexually-fused
disco vocal. One of the disco pieces from the late 70’s which uses a
hook to play out a sexy urge to make love. It is the Euro-disco
formula which was formulated by tracks like “Love In ‘C’ Minor” and
“I Feel Love” and presented in a new raw form with percussion
pounding out the disco orgasm. The build on this one is quite
dramatic and gives of the ideal that “moonlight” is the place to be
for that moment in the night. |
 |
|
• Just How Sweet Is Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rhyze
Rhyze is a disco/soul group from New Jersey from the early 80’s
produced by Paul Kyser. The ensemble included "Jojo" McKnight,
Charles Holmes, Ellsworth Anderson, Kenneth Hicks, Kevin Barbee,
Richard Menter, Roscoe Taylor and Vince Jackson. “Just How Sweet Is
Your Love” is their single from 1980 which became one of the
underground club hits almost immediately as the shift from disco to
New York funk hit. This piece makes a simple statement and the real
sound is the vocal edge of this arrangement. The soulful feel gives
their music more of a standing especially when more and more of the
New York disco began to slowly become less and less produced. This
piece remains a club classic to those who understand the music or
experienced it themselves. |
 |
|
• No Regrets - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amanda Lear
Amanda Lear is a disco magnificent icon. Her music has always been
directed appropriately with the elegance and chic attitude which
disco music represented during its inception. The haunting allure of
her vocals has always been the focus of her sound and also the mood
in which she continues to create with each number. “No Regrets”
comes from her 1983 project titled “Tam Tam” – produced by Roberto
Cacciapaglia and features Amanda’s shift into the 80’s electronic
dance forum. This piece is a memorial to her near past which Amanda
gives us to apologies for any outrageous or questionable degree. It
is a mini-anthem and plays out with a musical outline as haunting as
her vocal. |
 |
|
• Crazy Over You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Desire
Desire is an electronic high-energy project from producer Sabby
Rayas and Steve Galindo. Their 1986 release “Crazy Over You” is one
of the underground pieces which brings back the sound which makes
the 80’s exciting. The pumping bass and lyrical keyboards give off a
spark which made dance floors move with dedication to the beat/
Vocals are provided by Rae Flores and deliver the riff which make
this one so memorable. It is again one of the releases that make it
easy to understand high energy music and how it works. |
 |
|
• Hypnotic Tango - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - My Mine
My Mine is Carlo Malatesta, Danilo Rosati, Darren Hatch and Stefano
Micheli – an early mark in Italo-disco during 1983. “Hypnotic Tango”
is the breath behind the dance genre which became the move into
electronic pulses and arrangements along with the melodic sweetness
of disco music aura. Italo-disco became a new edge from innovative
productions as this. The mild percolating sequencers guide the
chorus which makes another alley for 80’s dance music. This classic
does stand out in the execution which brings home the foundation for
the Italian disco machine of the time. |
 |
|
• It's My Turn - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Venus Dodson
Venus Dodson is a vocalist whose talent appeared in many disco
classics as they were in the making – including Herbie Mann’s
“Superman” and the project Phreek from 1978. Her first project
titled “Night Rider” is one of the disco transition pieces vocally
even though the sound of Patrick Adam’s resonates throughout each
song. Venus takes her voice into a more relaxed delivery and makes
each line a calming and assured verse. “Night Rider” is one of my
top 10 picks of all-time. It is one of the perfect moments in pure
disco music. “It’s My Turn” is from the same album and gives a
mature breakup some words for closure. It has some wonderful riffs
and also that calm and bluesy-like delivery which Venus makes her
own. |
 |
|
• Moody - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - ESG
ESG is Marie Scroggins, Renee Scroggins and Valerie Scroggins – a
trio from South Bronx whose first album “Come Away With ESG”
released in 1983. More of an experimental recording with several
dance genres taking over their raw instrumental which present the
underground dance feel of its time. “Moody” is one of the more
recognizable pieces and is simply a drum groove with an early bass
line of the house sound. The faint and distant vocal has been used
in several house mixes and became one of the moments where a hall
full of dancers was place in a hypnotic trance on the floor. This
one truly has its own power and makes the point which the band
intended. |
 |
|
• Love Is On The Way - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Duncan Sisters
Helen and Phyllis Duncan are The Duncan Sisters - an unforgettable
duo making the last days of disco memorable and hard to leave
behind. The production from Three Hat Productions (THP Orchestra)
recorded a rousing backdrop for these magic ladies powerful vocals.
They can also be heard of the “THP 2” and Sticky Fingers projects.
“Love Is On The Way” is a above the clouds number that not only
exclaims the joy but explains it with the ladies quite eloquent
performances – much that reminds us of the powerful of those groups
like The Three Degrees. The horn section here is a striking
celebration of a 20’s big band pounding out the energy. This one may
be a filler piece from the project but still unforgettable. |
 |
|
• Beat Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chris Thompson
Chris Thompson is vocalist from New Zealand whose past work includes
Manfred Mann’s Earth Band and Alan Parsons Project. His single “Beat
Of Love” from 1991is one of the highlights of the early morning set
pieces. It was produced by Harold Faltermeyer of Munich disco
sessions and plays out in a whirlpool of love and admiration to a
relationship. The rock-edged vocal over the rolling bass sequencers
and haunting breaks made this one a part of my program for after
hours or simply a life-dance tape. It has Chris wailing a beautiful
masculine outline and brings up to an early sunrise on any dance
floor. |
 |
|
• All Of Me For All Of You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - 9.9
9.9 are Leslie Jones, Margo Thunder and Wanda Perry – an r&b trio
produced by Richard 'Dimples' Fields in the mid-80s. Their big
pop-dance hit “All Of Me For All Of You” from 1985 is a memorable
piece with the synthetic funk edge which slams vigorously along with
the vocals from these gals. It is a love song full of emotions and
also a few moments where the uplifting serenade takes on its own.
This one was always a nice number during a funk set or early evening
when the floor needed to be ignited. |
 |
|
• Funky Celebration - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Queen Samantha
Queen Samantha is producer Harry Chalkitis and vocalist Gloria
Brooks. The concept band began in 1978 with their first project
titled “The Letter” which included a cover of Box Tops 1967
rock-classic by the same name. The sound of Queen Samantha consisted
of the falsetto lead painting a mood over Euro-disco and electronic
arrangements. “Funky Celebration” is from the 1979 project “The
Queen Samantha” and is the eclectic sound of disco in its finale 70s
form. This one uses horns and a heavy percussion layer to move from
rhythmic sessions to the verses and acapella verses. One of the
iconic sounds for this fabulous group and another reason they will
always be remembered. |
 |
|
• Goddess Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Soif de la Vie
Soif de la Vie is Christian Krusch, Helmut Wittler, Leo Walter, and
Oliver Hardt – a German high energy project from 1984. Their single
“Goddess Of Love” became the staple for high energy dance music of
the period. The rolling syntheses and heavy jungle drum beats are
the pinnacle master of disco music. The theme is sung by vocalist
Rosary in a wicked delivery where she gives out the message from her
thrown. This one is a fast moving and rhythmic adventure and is no
wonder why it was such a favorite in the wee-hours of those big
dance palaces. |
 |
|
• Space - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Viola Wills
Viola Wills is a disco legend who made dance floors not only
recognize a fitting voice for the dance floor but also the number of
times she struck more than a chord. Her hits include many cover
versions with a dance arrangement including her big 1980 classic of
Gordon Lightfoot’s “If You Could Read My Mind”. Viola took many
different turns throughout her recording career but always remained
faithful to the dance floor. “Space” is a track from her 1983
project by the same name – it was produced by Viola and her husband
Robert Ashmun. The question here is how much we know of the
relationships we work at and a rule of law where time apart creates
growth also. The arrangement is much like a Broadway number which
reaches several heights and gives off a chorus of bold believers. |
 |
|
• Dancing Machine - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jackson Five
Jackson Five are Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, Michael, Randy and Tito
Jackson. Their career has spanned from the early 70’s throughout the
late 80’s first as family band and then as a force in pop music.
“Dancing Machine” is a track from their 1974 album by the same name
and was produced by Hal Davis and arranged by Arthur Wright. The
single is one of the group’s iconic pieces in that it introduced the
soulful sound of their music along with early signs of themed disco
song. The energy behind this piece is the riffs which drop in and
out as horn sections and bring the song to a higher level. |
 |
|
• Mamy Blue - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Claire Chevalier
Claire Chevalier is a memorable talent from the late 60’s to the
late 70’s whose music always gave way to her vocal performances.
There is a meek yet sensual approach to her lyrics and the true
essence of a stage magnet. “Mamy Blue” she recorded in in a
production by Gay Vaquer. Claire approaches this now classic piece
with no fear or holding back. The tale of an estranged mother and
child is delivered with the emotion the song was meant to deliver. |
 |
|
• Infatuation - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Midnight Passion
Midnight Passion is an Italian dance project from producer Shany
with arrangements by Romano Trevisani. “Infatuation” is their 1986
release with takes a basic street sample and blends it into a fierce
horn break and plenty of electronic riffs which flow together in a
challenge-like fashion. It is one of the crossover pieces which feel
like high energy yet leaves behind the energy which Italo-disco
presented a few years earlier. This is their second single and gives
out the same energy but with more of a stage for the instrumental. |
 |
|
• In The Name Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Thompson Twins
Thompson Twins are Tom Bailey, Alannah Currie and Chris Bell – one
of the many memorable groups from the 80’s. Their first dance floor
hit “in The Name Of Love” from 1982 was produced by Dennis Bovell,
Mike Howlett and Steve Lillywhite. This was a powerhouse single who
gave the band their identity with its nu-wave edged vocals, heavy
percussion and drums. It was the synth-pop sound of the early 80’s
exploding with a new direction. “In The Name Of Love” has several
riffs which keep the energ moving at a steady pace along with the
somewhat distorted groove. |
 |
|
• Temptation - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Corina
Corina (Corina Katt Ayala) is a freestyle artist who released her
1991 single “Temptation” to dance floors waiting for the next big
thang. This track immediately took off and became the top on club
playlists. Produced by Chris Paul and fed more beats than one song
can handle. This backbeat/freestyle dance release has been said to
have saved freestyle music at the time. These hard edged beats will
take the dance floor and pound out a new surface with its razor
sharp sound and ominous energy. One of the top picks from my club at
the time and gave the dance floor no empty spaces. |
 |
|
• Don't Go Breaking My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ciao Ciao
Ciao Ciao is an Italian-disco project from producer Mauro Farina
(Alan Barry, Coo Coo) who worked in the transformation of
Italo-disco from the early 80’s to the high energy/girl twirl sound
of the mid and late 80’s. This duo consisted of Cristina Cucchi &
Rachel Fellini on vocals. “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” is their
first single from 1988 – and on the classic Italian dance label,
Asia Records. This is one of the fluffy dance numbers that plays out
using the formula of rolling bass and soft pounding beats. The
essence of mid-80s Italian dance is all here and the melody even
flows closely to a Bananarama style (“Love In The First Degree”). It
is one of the memorable tracks from catalogue of Italo-dance with
the foundation which always works. |
 |
|
• Somebody Save The Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Redd
Sharon Redd defines an introduction to the New York funk/disco sound
emerging during the early 80s. Her dance floor hits “Beat The
Street”, “In The Name Of Love” and “Love How You Feel” were the
structure of this artist’s powerful delivery of funk-charged numbers
and anthems. Her legacy continues as many dance enthusiasts new and
old discover her unique sound and presence. “Somebody Save The
Night” is from her 1983 project “Love How You Feel” – produced by
Eric Matthew (Gary’s Gang). This number is an outline of the
Redd-experience where she takes a groove and lays out her song in a
streetwise yet sophisticated approach. This one is a promise of
being captured on a lonely rather than returning for the same for
longing over and over. |
 |
|
• Age Of Reason - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - John Farnham
John Farnham is an Australian singer whose recording career began in
1968 and became a best-selling single in 1960. His career continued
through 2001 - including duets with Olivia Newton-John. In 1988 his
project titled “Age Of Reason” brought an anthem-like dance track
which became an underground classic in many clubs. This piece is one
of the powerful crossover recordings for the dance floor and stays
powerful from start to finish. The yearning for a movement of
understanding for humanity and a time where peace and serenity is
necessary are one that ring true throughout time and even more so
that this lesson gives us a challenge to use of minds along with our
hearts. The production id from Ross Frazer and plays out in a
several moving crescendos and a wonderful cool down into the rhythm
tracks. |
 |
|
• Down Down Romeo - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Meccano
Lime is one of the lasting flavors of disco/dance history. Denis
Lepage and Denyse Lepage brought to the dance floor a more
simplistic edge with plenty of percussion and colorful riffs to make
their style memorable and lasting. “Take My Heart Away” is from
their 1991 project titled “Caroline” and gives off a sensible energy
that Lime is known for – but also displays the longevity of Denis
Lepage genius with a full on electronic arrangement as he always
applied in his work. |
 |
|
• Take My Heart Away - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime
Lime is one of the lasting flavors of disco/dance history. Denis
Lepage and Denyse Lepage brought to the dance floor a more
simplistic edge with plenty of percussion and colorful riffs to make
their style memorable and lasting. “Take My Heart Away” is from
their 1991 project titled “Caroline” and gives off a sensible energy
that Lime is known for – but also displays the longevity of Denis
Lepage genius with a full on electronic arrangement as he always
applied in his work. |
 |
|
• Peeping Tom - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Rockwell
Rockwell (Kennedy William Gordy) released his second album titled
“Captured...By An Evil Mind” in 1985 – following the success of his
first single “Somebody’s Watching Me” from the prior year. “Peeping
Tom” was the single from the second project and caught my attention
immediately with the sheer string bridge which brings to mind the
disco effect. The theme of the track is clever once again as
Rockwell provides a story of eyes lured by an unknown force and
making this synth-pop number stand out with his vocal and touch.
Although the release was not as noticed as his first hit, it still
remains a hidden treasure from am 80’s artist who left an indelible
mark in dance music. |
 |
|
• Body Heat - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Partners
Kano began as an Italian-disco project featuring Luciano Ninzatti,
Stefano Pulga and Matteo Bonsanto. The edge of this dance music
centered on a powerful mystic influence from another universe
perhaps where the groove is the thing. Their big hit “I’m Ready”
from 1980 featured a B-side titled “Holly Dolly” which was not
included in their album release. The track was another futuristic
styled theme with a voice bringing the light on a female figure who
rules all during the night. It is one of the provoking pieces as
much as “I’m Ready” with familiar elements however; it flies on its
own. |
 |
|
• Holly Dolly - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kano
Kano began as an Italian-disco project featuring Luciano Ninzatti,
Stefano Pulga and Matteo Bonsanto. The edge of this dance music
centered on a powerful mystic influence from another universe
perhaps where the groove is the thing. Their big hit “I’m Ready”
from 1980 featured a B-side titled “Holly Dolly” which was not
included in their album release. The track was another futuristic
styled theme with a voice bringing the light on a female figure who
rules all during the night. It is one of the provoking pieces as
much as “I’m Ready” with familiar elements however; it flies on its
own. |
 |
|
• Gonna Lose My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Thu Thuy
Thu Thuy (also known as Sher’e) is an 80’s dance music artist who
released a single in 1987 titled “Gonna Lose My Heart” – produced by
Skip Saylor. The single was one of the electronic dance productions
which were being labeled as Asian Nu-wave. This piece is a rolling
bass synth-pop outline with a nice catchy verse and execution with
Thu Thuy’s engaging vocal. It is a bittersweet remedy for those who
followed the Italo-disco fad of the early 80’s onto the late part of
the dance era. |
 |
|
• Get It Up For Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tata Vega
Tata Vega is one of the talents of the 70s whose voice remains one
of the unique sounds in soul and R&B. Her career includes a
contribution to the disco era of 1978 with her classic song “I Just
Keep Thinking About You Baby” from her project “Try My Love”. The
flip side of this 12” disco single is “Get It Up For Love” which is
another delivery that is unforgettable and gives Tata another
opportunity to create a stage for her style and energy. The
production by Winston Monseque is disco/funk arrangement which
brings out the best of the beats. |
 |
|
• Everyman - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Double Exposure
Double Exposure is one of Salsoul Records early marks in dance
history. The group included Charles Whittington, Jimmy Williams, Joe
Harris, and Leonard Davis – and backing the ensemble were members of
the Salsoul Orchestra sessions. This brought the soulful edge of
vocals and gospel energy to disco music. As the strings wind into
each verse and chorus the funky basslines provide that bumpin’
rhythm base that later became house music in the 80s. “Everyman” is
from their 1976 project titled “Ten Percent” and gives a new shine
to disco music of the time. One of the great pieces and outlines on
the Salsoul label and now a classic. |
 |
|
• Fall In Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ryan Paris
Ryan Paris (Fabio Roscioli) is an Italian singer whose first single
from 1983, “Dolce Vita” became a huge dance floor hit. Produced by
Pierluigi Giombini and John Bini this arrangement and sound became
an outline for Italo-disco produced in the early 80’s. It was a soft
and majestic edge that brought sophistication along with the disco
beats and claps. “Fall In Love” was his 1984 single which is another
beautiful love song with Ryan’s romantic delivery and the building
crescendos of lilting music. This one has always been a favorite of
mine and always brings to heart the soul of Italian disco music. |
 |
|
• Feel Your Way Around - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ann Joy
Ann Joy (Anna Gioia) is a disco artist produced by Peter Dimilo from
1980 – the project titled “Love Dance”, as he achieved in his Erotic
Drum Band releases Mr. Dimilo brings a barrage of percussion which
outlines a sexy flavor in his music. The percussion makes love the
beat while Ms. Joy here gives us the sensual layering of soft
intimate vocals. This was one of my favorite singles of the dance
80’s period and makes the dance floor continue to move in and out as
the bongos do. |
 |
|
• It's Up To You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lian Ross
Lian Ross (Josephine Hiebel) is a German vocalist who became one of
the welcomed artists of the mid-80s on dance floors. Her big hit,
“Fantasy” from 1985 is one of the high energy releases which I
savored during the time period – it not only featured a great and
majestic electronic dance edge but also Lian’s beautiful vocals.
“It’s Up To You” is another single released in 1986 – produced by
Luis Rodríguez-Salazar. This lovely track is an uplifting and
haunting sound that resonates the beauty that high energy music can
sound right on the dance floor. There are angelic effects that make
the wind blow right on the dance floor. |
 |
|
• Superman - Glenn Rivera ReStructure MiX - C.K.B.
C.K.B. is a disco project from Luigi Ojival – who also gave us Diva
Gray and Oyster from 1979. “Superman” is their single from the “New
York City Women” project released in 1978. Another disco tribute to
the “Man of Steel” and even today maintains his spot in
entertainment. This fast moving dance track features some great
rhythm guitars and imaginative lyrics/vocals. An adoring chorus of
“Superman” fans gives the super-hero a life in a few statements and
makes the chorus uplifting and fun. |
 |
|
• You Blow Me Away - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paul Lekakis
Paul Lekakis is an 80’s singer who brought an anthem to clubs in
1986 titled “Boom Boom (Let's Go Back To My Room)” – produced by
Miki Chieregato. The risqué track became an instant hit in many
clubs and gave Lekakis his head start in dance music. “You Blow Me
Away” is a single released in 1989 and produced by Shep Pettibone.
This piece gives way to a high energy love song with the classic
Pettibone sample tracks. This one was a popular pick on weekend
packed dance floors and gave another anthem riff to Paul’s
reputation. |
 |
|
• Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Inner Life
Inner Life is a disco project from producers Patrick Adams and Greg
Carmichael and features Jocelyn Brown on vocals. Their big dance
floor hit “I'm Caught Up (In A One Night Love Affair)” from 1979
made an impact as an anthem for the end of the 70s disco era. Their
1981 project “Inner Life” features their fabulous cover of the
Motown classic “Ain't No Mountain High Enough”. One of the Garage
classics beautifully remixed by Larry Levan himself and along with
the incredible vocal from Jocelyn this one will live forever. One of
the great early revival pieces of the early 80s when the underground
scene again to prove that the dance floor was not yet closed. |
 |
|
• Express - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - B.T. Express
B.T. Express is funk band from Brooklyn, New York and is well known
for their sexy 1974 hit, “Do It (‘Til Your Satisfied)”. Produced by
Jeff Lane and features early member, Billy Nichols (“Give Your Body
Up To The Music”). “Express” is a memorable track since there were a
few dance releases featuring the train theme as energy on the dance
floor. This one delivers the brass and horn section which makes the
early 70s funk scene jump start the disco era. The arrangement is a
smooth groove along with a breakdown of instrumentals along with the
popular chorus line. A piece of the funk and dance scene which makes
the 70s groovy. |
 |
|
• Party Light - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine
Munich Machine is a staple disco project from producers, Giorgio
Moroder and Pete Bellotte. The fusion of Euro-disco and electronic
elements from Moroder’s early masterwork. Their big dance floor
track “Get On The Funk Train” has always given the disco elegance to
the nightlife and are an important part of the path of dance music.
“Party Light” is from the 1979 project titled “Body Shine” and gives
this session an anthem for the time period. It has several movements
pieced into a slick mover that takes the project into a new phase. |
 |
|
• Burn Me Up (With Your Love) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Frisky
Frisky is a studio group from producers Moses Dillard and Jesse
Boyce – and features Joy Cannon and Lorraine Johnson on vocals. The
project simply titled “Frisky” is more of the New York disco/funk
which Boyce and Dillard made their own. On projects by Saturday
Night Band, Constellation Orchestra to the solo album from Lorraine
Johnson there is a groove which |
 |
|
• Makin' Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gary's Gang
Gary’s Gang is Joe Tucci (Eric Matthew) and Gary Turnier – who also
marked a vital period in disco history with their 1978 dance floor
hit, “Keep On Dancing”. A lightly woven sound which encompassed a
soft disco edge with percussion and a few harmonies. Their 1983
release “Makin’ Music” is a return to that soft-disco feel with more
of the energy which dance music acquired from the late 70s and
became high energy in the 80s. This one is the same formula with a
touch more of that sweetness which makes Gary’s Gang a favorite in
the disco realm. |
 |
|
• Faith In You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kiss Like This
Kiss Like This is Richard Hennassey – a synth-pop project produced
by Robin Goodfellow. “Faith In You” is a 1990 love song which has
the anthem energy of the time and also brings to mind the Stock,
Aitken and Waterman period of the late 80s with the swirling chorus
and beautiful breaks. The winding feel of this magic has always been
one of my favorites and made the top of my playlists during a set
which demanded a touch of magic. |
 |
|
• You're All The Booge I Need - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Teena Marie
Teena Marie created a style of her own as many 80’s artists had the
freedom to rewrite for a whole new dance floor and sound. Her
funk-edged sound gave her the ability to send messages in a new way
for female artists; “You’re All The Boogie I Need” is from her
second album from 1980 titled “Lady T” – produced by Richard
Rudolph. This percolating piece is a great piece for Teena’s
exuberant delivery and sweetness combined. It plays out with energy
and also brings a nice funkiness to its own groove. |
 |
|
• You Can't Steal My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Azure
Azure is hi-NRG producer Steven Schani and Mark Ligget (Shannon)
along with Jennifer Matthews on vocals. Their music from the late
80’s through the mid-90s was one of the welcomed high-energy sets on
the dance floor. The energy is pumping though their first three
releases and makes a sweeping sound on their catchy keyboard riffs
and Ms. Matthews' fantastic vocals. “Can’t Steal My Love” is their
first release from 1989 and was also released on San Francisco’s
Megatone Label. A fast moving statement from a worn-out relationship
where our divas asserts her final warning. One of the high energy
gems of the late 80s. |
 |
|
• Proud Mary - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nuggets
Nuggets are disco project from Italian producer, Celso Valli who
also gave us Tantra, Passengers, Lama, Azoto and Future State. This
release from 1979 was a promise of many good things to come as he
ignites the early sound of disco building into a solid energy for
dancers. “Proud Mary” is his cover of the classic made most famous
by Ike and Tina Turner. This rendition is a Broadway spectacle with
fanfare and long drawn out breaks. It is his arrangements on horns
which make this one most noticeable. The power builds immediately
and continues throughout. |
 |
 |
|
|
• Beat My Drum - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Claudja Barry |
 |
|
•
Castro Boy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Danny Boy and The
Serious Party Gods |
 |
|
• Stop! In The Name Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Quantize |
 |
|
• If You Feel It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Taffy |
 |
|
• Je T' aime - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Saint Tropez |
 |
|
• Loving You, Losing You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Phyllis
Hyman |
 |
|
• Takin' A Chance On You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sticky
Fingers |
 |
|
• Midnight Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Martin Stevens |
 |
|
• Warm As Mamas Oven - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Teena Marie |
 |
|
• Little Bit Of Soap - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nigel Olsson |
 |
|
• Let Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Bryant |
 |
|
• Village People - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Village People |
|
|
• Go Home - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stevie Wonder |
 |
|
• Girls Cost Money - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Passengers |
 |
|
• Hello Superduper Star - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvia Mason |
 |
|
• Whenever You Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Danuta |
 |
|
• 1,000 Ways - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Martin King |
 |
|
• Send Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Redd |
 |
|
• Autumn Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Electra |
 |
|
• Fantastic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Meccano |
 |
|
•
Help! Help! - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gilla |
 |
|
•
Something Ya Got Makes Me Hot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - El Coco |
 |
|
•
First Time Ever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Joanna Law |
 |
|
•
Crystal World - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Crystal Grass |
 |
|
•
Music Makes My Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madleen Kane |
 |
|
• High Above The Clouds - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Narada Michael Walden |
 |
|
• Jour de Neige - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Elsa |
 |
|
• I Like It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - D:Ream |
 |
|
• American Soviets - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - C.C.C.P. |
 |
|
• Dirty Cash - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Adventures of Stevie V. |
 |
|
• Motion - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Deodato |
 |
|
• You Are My Desire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shy Rose |
 |
|
•
I Feel Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fax Yourself |
 |
|
•
I'll Be All You Ever Need - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Trinere |
 |
|
•
Magic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Brian Soares |
 |
|
• High Energy/Reach Out, I'll Be There - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sandy
Linton |
 |
|
• It's You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime |
 |
|
• Sweet Drums - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cerrone |
 |
|
• You Can't Run From My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stephanie Mills |
 |
|
• Get The Look - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - New Paradise |
 |
|
• She's A Star - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kano |
 |
|
• Cecilia - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mike Mareen |
 |
|
• Don't
Leave Me This Way - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Slip |
 |
|
• Dr. Doo-Dah - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kongas |
 |
|
• Las Colinas De Katmandu - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tantra |
 |
|
• Jumpin (Get Hot, Hit The Spot) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vera |
 |
|
• San Salvador - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Azoto |
|
|
• Over You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Wendy |
 |
|
• Enchanted Garden - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giovanni Fenati / Madeline
Bell |
 |
|
• Let's Get It Together - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - El Coco |
 |
|
• Escapade - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Janet Jackson |
 |
|
•
Tower Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Romance |
 |
|
•
Wind Beneath My Wings - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Menage |
 |
|
•
A Good Man (Is Hard To Find) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Boys Town Gang |
 |
|
• Give It To Me Baby - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cheri |
 |
|
• I Want A New Drug - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Huey Lewis and The News |
 |
|
• Doctor's Orders - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sunny |
 |
|
• De Musique En Musique - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Caprice |
 |
|
• Take It Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime |
 |
|
•
Running Up That Hill - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kate Bush |
 |
|
• Give Me You Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Soccer |
|
|
• Heaven - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gibson Brothers |
 |
|
• Love Rescue - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Project |
 |
|
•
Can't You Feel It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Time |
 |
|
•
Shine Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Doris and The Pins |
 |
|
• Suspicious Minds - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Thelma Houston |
 |
|
•
That's What Keeps 'Em Dancin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Persia |
 |
|
•
If You Wanna Get Back Yor Lady - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pointer Sisters |
 |
|
•
Dealin' With The Boogie - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Westside Strutters |
 |
|
•
Boys - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mary Jane Girls |
 |
|
•
I Just Died In Your Arms - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Savage |
 |
|
•
Full-Tilt Boogie - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Uncle Louie |
 |
|
•
I Don't Wanna Be Lonely - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Joan Orleans |
 |
|
•
Lip Service (Rumor Control) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jessica Williams |
 |
|
•
Danger - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Flirts |
 |
|
•
It's Passion - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The System |
|
|
•
Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Moonstone |
 |
|
•
The One - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Crocodile Mark |
 |
|
•
Under Fire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jackie |
 |
|
•
Maneater - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Daryl Hall and John Oates |
 |
|
•
Break My Stride - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Matthew Wilder |
 |
|
•
Up The Ladder to The Roof - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - John Kydd |
 |
|
•
Body Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chris Rainbow |
 |
|
•
Boogie Nights - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Heatwave |
 |
|
•
Love Is Like An Itching In My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lisa |
 |
|
•
Cuba - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Man 2 Man |
 |
|
•
Angel Eyes - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime |
 |
|
• Please Don't Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Digital Game |
 |
|
•
Who's Your Boyfriend - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eric |
 |
|
•
Stand By Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jam Tronik |
 |
|
•
French Kiss - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lil' Louis |
 |
|
•
Band Of Gold - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester |
 |
|
•
On The Upside - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Xena |
 |
|
•
No Life Without Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jeanne Dee |
 |
|
• I Can't Get Enough - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chyp-Notic |
 |
|
• The Pleasure of The Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ester B. |
 |
|
•
Haven't Stopped Dancing Yet - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Faces |
 |
|
•
Another Sleepless Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shawn Christopher |
 |
|
•
Certain Things Are Likely - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - KTP |
 |
|
•
Daddy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - (212) |
 |
|
•
Requiem - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - London Boys |
 |
|
•
Rock Me Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chip Chip |
 |
|
• Daydream - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -
Buckbeats |
 |
|
• Darling Forever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Baiser |
 |
|
•
Chase 1985 - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio |
 |
|
•
The Louder - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Jacques Band |
|
|
•
My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime |
 |
|
•
The Roof Is On Fire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Westbam |
 |
|
•
Love X Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - George Benson |
 |
|
•
Nightlife - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer |
 |
|
• Lost In A Dream - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nick John |
 |
|
•
Don't Stop - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Digital Emotion |
|
|
•
Someday (I'm Coming Back) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lisa Stansfield |
 |
|
•
Under The Lights Of Montreal - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Montreal |
 |
|
•
Crisis - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rhetta Hughes |
 |
|
• Love Queen Boogie - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nonchalance |
 |
|
•
You'll Never Find (Another Love Like Mine) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bill
Fredericks |
 |
|
•
Love In 'C Minor - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sphinx |
 |
|
•
Baby Gets High - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Brown |
 |
|
•
Silent Morning - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Noel |
 |
|
•
Stop - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - valery Allington |
 |
|
•
Love Will Find A Way - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pablo Cruise |
 |
|
•
L'amour Toujours L'amour - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Leonore O'Malley |
 |
|
•
Exotic and Erotic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sandy Marton |
 |
|
•
Planet of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Le Pamplemousse |
 |
|
• Just A Gigolo - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Village People |
 |
|
• Put A Little Love In Your Lovin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gene
Page |
 |
|
•
Unexpected Lovers - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pseudonym |
 |
|
•
Band On The Run - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paul McCartney and Wings |
 |
|
• Free - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kate B |
 |
|
•
More, More More - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dayl |
 |
|
•
Take Away The Rain - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sidewalk |
 |
|
•
Disco Darling - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Top Secret |
 |
|
•
Where's Your Love Gone - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Julie Stapleton |
 |
|
•
Keep It Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - L.U.P.O. |
 |
|
•
Midnight Rhythm - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Midnight Rhythm |
 |
|
•
Work Hard - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Depeche Mode |
 |
|
•
Get Ready To Go - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tantra |
 |
|
•
I Can't Live Without You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sean Taylor |
 |
|
•
Zero - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gepy and Gepy |
 |
|
•
Barry White Medley - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Band of Gold |
 |
|
• I'll
Dance To That - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester |
 |
|
• I'm Your Boogie Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Digital Game |
 |
|
•
Burnin' Hot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jermaine Jackson |