REWIND Vs. JIGSAW SNEAKERS @ GET SERVED TOUR Feat. Omarion, Marques Houston & Avant (Vodaphone Arena, Melbourne)

Picture Description: GET SERVED TOUR Feat. Omarion, Marques Houston & Avant... Now to also feature Rewind and Jigsaw Sneakers.. lol

Hey guys, apologies for the lack of updates as things have been absolutely hectic! Well as some of you may or may not know, the 'GET SERVED TOUR' feat Omarion, Marques Houston & Avant will be hitting Australia in November and heading to a few cities around Australia before finishing the Aussie tour at Vodaphone Arena (Melbourne Park), VIC on Friday 9th November. Proudly presented by C4 Events and Platinum Concepts.

Just to fill you guys in, the Get Served Tour ran a small national dance competition in each of the states consisting of Heat 1 and Heat 2, where the winners get to battle it out on stage at the Get Served Concert in a 'You Got Served' style dance battle. For the Melbourne competition, Jigsaw Sneakers took out Heat 1, while Rewind took out Heat 2 which was held @ Bass Lounge. These two crews will now go head to head live on stage at Vodaphone Arena when the tour hits Melbourne. SHOULD BE FUN!!!!

Artists, Omarion, Marques Houston and Avant are set to provide an exhilarating and explosive stage show with state of the art sound, lighting and video production at all the venues!

This concert will go off with early bird tickets already SOLD OUT!! For more information please visit www.ticketek.com.au, or http://www.getservedtour.com/

Peace.
Steve
REWIND

Our Backyard

Supporting Aussie Hip hop, thought Id plug this for RoboGirl - Check out Rewind this Sunday!

http://www.myspace.com/ourbackyardhiphop

"Our Backyard - FREE Hip Hop Event- this upcoming Sunday!!!

Show your support for the 8 registered crews - Battles will commence at 1pm sharp and throughout the afternoon so get there early! All spot are filled! Registered crews will be announced tomorrow!

First prize: $400

The massive lineup also features Sydney City party rockers Bliss n Eso,

plus breakers crew Wickid Force, Tall Man Sound System feat. MC Julez, Dragonfly & Jason Anxious (USA) with DJs Affix & Sizzle, hip hop dance crews Rewind, Beatphonik, Souljetz and Fusion, popping crew Nomadic Funk showcases by the New Scool Rulez Crew and krumping masters Royal Kaos Fam plus an emcee freestyle battle

There will also be an APRA Songwriter Speaks session on the day, chaired by leading female MC Liones, featuring Macromantics and Countbounce from TZU in conversation about their lyrical inspirations.

Our Backyard promises to be a non stop, high-energy, eye-opening exploration of hip hop culture. Sunday September 16 from 1-5pm at the Arts Centre, Playhouse, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Entry is free!

This free, all ages, alcohol, drug and smoke-free event is brought to you by The Push.

the Arts Centre in association with Multicultural Arts Victoria as part of Mix It Up presents
Our Backyard
16 September 1 - 5pm
the Arts Centre, Playhouse
FREE EVENT

for more info contact Arna push_it@thepush.asn.au "

Updates!

Picture Description: Montanasa - The largest scale battle comp to hit Australia | Montanasa MySpace | Montanasa on GrooveDance

Updates!:

- Videos are still being edited - Sorry for the delay as its been really bz the last few weeks on Rewinds return from LA...

- Rewind performed at Parkmore Shopping Centre over the weekend- Thanks everyone for coming and supporting the show (despite the small stage we managed to pull it off!) and congrats to Aspirations for putting on a great production. Shoutouts to all the crews that performed that day as well!

- Montanasa is coming up in about a month (30th Sept)- I can personally say that this will be the best production for the dance scene ever put up in Australia. Expect to see battles from the best Australia has to offer in Bboying, Krumping, Popping, Locking and House. Tickets available soon- Will keep you posted. For other events in Sept visit: WWW.Groovedance.COM

- Did anyone get JT Tickets? I DID! Im hoping to get some info about if (or when) Marty or any of his dancers will do some workshops down here...which will be so so awesome. Chris Brown made an appearance at MMA for workshops conducted by his Dancers- Maybe JT will turns up to some workshops too? Will let you know when i get the info...

Wez

Distractions

Video Description: Nicole Scherzinger- Whatever you Like

While i sort through the 4 Hours of video that Steve took overseas, i thought id distract you with some pussycat action from Nicole Scherzingers new video with TI. Sure it sounds a bit like Blindfold me by Kelis but ...who cares? Banging beats so its definitely one i'm gonna be dropping at the clubs...

By the way, If your around Parkmore Shopping Center (Keysborough) next week, check out Rewind who will performing around 7.00pm on Friday for Aspirations Hair! (Our first show since Rewind arrived back from LA....)

Wes

Home Sweet Home

Video Description: Triple 8 Funk (NZ) and Rewind (AUS)


It’s the start of a new week and all of Rewind have now touched down from LA and are back in Melbourne (Well, except for Liz who has another month to go).

It has been posted already in a previous comment but if you want to see a full list of the finalist and their scores check out this link HERE.

I’ll be catching up with them later this week for a full round-up interview about the experience and what they thought of the event as a whole. Right now, it’s time to come back to reality and focus on what’s happening on our shores…

Also check out the Myspace pages of Steve and Susie from Rewind to see some AWESOME action shots of Rewind live on stage in LA for HHI! (*Visit Rewinds top friends on MySpace: MySpace.com/RewindDanceProductions)


There has been posts of the 10th, 7th, 5th, 3rd, 2nd and first place at HHI on YouTube but I can't find anyone that has the show of Rewind at HHI. Steve has told me that Australia was considered the underdog at HHI and hence many people didn't expect what hit them when Australia made the top 12 (We Showed THEM!). Although the show for The Game at MMA wasn't the complete show (due to stage limitations), if someone cant post it that would be awesome...

Just to update everyone what’s coming up:

- Rewind will be making an appearance next month at Parkmore Shopping Center for Aspirations Studios
- Vince and a few other Melbourne dancers will be performing for Czarinas album debut launch at Shamiana
- There are many dance events happening in Melbourne during the month of September including the massive Montanasa- a fusion of Krump, Bboying, Locking, Popping and House battles on the most high-tech stage in the Southern Hemisphere- The Palms @ Crown Casinos (Proudly supported by MMA, United Entertainment, The Nation of Sound and Groovedance.com). Check out groovedance.com for more on Montanasa and other events.

Keeping you in the Know

Wes

Video Description: Triple 8 Funk, 5th for HHI 2007

On behalf of REWIND... Thankyou =D

Picture Description: REWIND on stage at the HHI 2007 Finals

Rewind have walked away from HHI 2007 with their heads held high. Some may say Rewinds journey has ended, but for me it feels like this is just the beginning of our quest to take on the Hip Hop world.

As most of you that have been following know, Rewind qualified 5th out of 38 Crews from around the world to make the Final 12 in Hip Hop International 2007 held at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Centre, Redondo Beach (Los Angeles) on 29th July, 2007. Rewind finished the competition in 8th place. A top effort for our first time on the world scale. (For top 3 placings, please refer to previous blogs)

It was an amazing experience that will be one of the biggest highlights of my Hip Hop/ Dancing career. Not just performing, but meeting all the other crews and seeing the different styles and amazing shows each and every crew put together.

On behalf of the Rewind Crew, I'd like to once again thank all those that helped us to achieve what we did. In particular, Acey & Anna (Detour)and Monica (Beatphonik). You guys are amazing and we wouldn't have been able to do this without you guys.

Also a huge thanks to everyone who wished us well and supported us from the start. Rewind hopes that this journey will inspire more Australian crews to take part in Hip Hop International whether it be Junior, Varsity or Adult, and inspire new generations of Hip Hop Dancers to continue the legacy.

Rewind has taken with them the experience, skills and knowledge from this competition and hope to return to Hip Hop International next year with an even bigger and better show.

One Love. Hip Hop.
Peace. Steve. REWIND.

One, two and three....

If you haven't already checked youtube for the home made versions of the top three performances at HHI, here they are in all their glory...


Video Description: Eklectik, 1st


Video Description: Kaba Modern, 2nd



Video Description: Phillipine All Stars, 3rd

Personally I thought Kaba's show killed it- They were first in all their qualifiers and for some reason, they got second in the finals.

Steve has confirmed Rewinds final place was actually 8th. This is a great achievement for us Aussies and I can't wait for them all to get back home so we can get an inside look at the event and the whole experience!

Question: Whats your thoughts on the top three?

The Final Results

Well the results are in with the top three placing like this:

World Battle Results:

3rd: Philippine All-Stars (Phillipines)
2nd: Kaba Modern (USA)
1st: Eclectik (Trinidad & Tobago)

I really dont have much info at the moment and i hope Steven can give us an inside scoop on how everything has gone so far!

So where did Rewind rank? Well, all I can say is that the qualifying round the night before already ranks the top 12 in the world going into the finals. The dance they perform in the qualifier is normally what is performed in the final, so the qualifying round would give us a good idea of what the final results would look like (Given they are using the same judges as the finals).

Why is the results from the qualifer different from the final? Well, i can only say that it would have come down to execution...One crew who may not have danced as well in the qualifer may have killed it in the finals (or vice versa).

Once i get a hold of the full top 12 ranks ill let you guys know. We'll also have a heap of videos of the event as well as a full video interview with the crew upon their return!

Its been a pretty full on week and I know the guys are pretty exhasted by the whole experience. Admittadly a part of me is disappointed, but I cant tell you how PROUD I am of Rewind and all the hard work they have put in for representing the Australian Hip hop Dance Industry, a now becoming a WORLD CLASS dance crew!

More updates to come,

Wez

Rewind (Aus) Qualifies 5th out of 38 Countries

Video Description: HHI 2006 DVD Trailer

Well Aussie people- feel proud of your representatives! Rewind out of 38 countries have come 5th in the pre-qualifer to the finals tomorrow night (Monday night, Australian time). That means Australia has made it into the top 12 in the world to compete in the finals! YAY! Steve and the crew have updated me via text so i haven't really got much for you at the moment except that they were up at 7am and they were still waiting for results at 12am that evening (17 hours later)...The top 5 qualified like this:

5th- Rewind (Australia)
4th- Physical Funk (Germany)
3rd- Philippine All-Stars (Philippines)
2nd- Eclectik (Trinidad & Tobago)
1st- Kaba Modern (USA)

The other crew in the final 12 to watch out for would be 7th qualifier, Dziah (NZ).

As for Psalms (Aus-Syd), I think they just arrived today and didn't make the cut. I asked myself, "Why would you travel half way across the world to arrive on the same day all jet lagged to perform at a world level?"...Some of my info is second hand so I'm hoping that i was wrong about that!

Right now they are resting, getting a good nights rest for tomorrow- The final showdown...

Go REWIND!

Keeping U Updated...

A Quickie Update

Video Description: Rewind in LA!

Just some quick updates:

- Rewind assisted Aspirations Studios this year at HBIA AND Aspirations Director, Tracey is again, Senior Australian Hairdresser of the Year 2007! Thanks again to the Replay gals! Pics going up soon
- Rewind is training hard in the US at the moment for HHI this weekend! They'll be attending the US finals as well which is also this weekend...
- Rewind met the Pussycat dolls choreographer whilst shopping ;p and met up with some of our good friends of the Funkanometry crew (Sup 2 JP, RJ and Shannon!) who we have performed in Melb...
- Jacqui of Rewind, will be performing with Mishanda this weekend at Billboards (Friday 27th) as well as at DJ Perils new venue for Soul Clap- The Gravity Bar
- Added some new track for listening and/or downloading. Im feelin Israels new track with Fabolous- check out 'Songs in the spotlight' on the left side of this page
- DJ Atomiks new 'Cherry Mix' to download from this site Soon!

Keeping u Posted

Wes

The Rewind HHI Crew - Vince

Video Description: Interview with Vince for HHI

Vince, being Rewinds choreographer gets a special video interview! Check out the clip above for footage of Vince and the crew, taken 7am on the morning Rewind left for LA.

Vince's dance experience spans over more than 10 years now and he has performed for all the major Australian RnB or Hip-hop artists including Jade Macrae, J-Wess, Israel...just to name a few. He teaches at all the top Hip hop dance schools here in Melbourne and is a well respected choreographer throughout the Australian dance scene...and we all know respect is certainly something that is well earned. Video clips; TV appearances; Massive live shows and not to forget, leading Rewind to be the number 1 dance crew in Australia...What next for the superstar choreographer?...Sky's the limit!...

REWIND has 'L.A'nded =D

Picture Description: The Crew having dinner at Ruby's Diner

Heya Guys!!!.. its great to be here to post our first official blog while in Los Angeles. Eveveryone arrived safely after a long 14 hour flight. Anywho, I must say that the weather is beautiful here. It was about 30 degrees yesterday and today the sun is shining but not so humid.

What have we done so far you ask??? Well getting around is pretty tricky as w'ere getting used to driving on the opposite sides of the road and the traffic rules. Everywhere you go you almost have to get on the freeway everytime which is 7 lanes wide but still chocca's. This is like the land of SUV's and Chrome Wheels where almost every corner has a burger place.

All of us are still getting used to the tipping with food and adding tax to everything we pay for. Basically its the price of whatever we buy plus 8.25% tax. If we eat in a sit in restaurant, its price of the meal, plus tax, plus tip which is about 10-15%.

We havent started training as yet so just been doing some sight seeing, catching up with our fellow american buddies and shopping down Melrose Avenue which was awesome. (W'ere gonna go back cause we ran outta time. Its similar to Chapel Street but 100 times better!!!! While shopping at an awesome shoe store called Sportie L.A, we ran into the Choreographer who features in "Search for the Net Pussy Cat Doll' who happily took a happy snap with the girls...sorry i dont know his name...lol).

We also stopped by Debbie Reynolds Dance Studio for a quick peak.

Tomorrow w'ere off to Disney Land for the day before our greulling traning starts.
Heres one of the many photos we have already taken, but for now, keep checking back for some updates.

I also have a video diary that I update regularly for Wes to tell you about our daily experiences but may be available pending editing by Wes when we get back.

Lots still planned ahead but thats the update for now.

I'd just like to say this we all miss you guys and thankyou to everyone for their support and well wishes.

Much Love. Steve and the whole Rewind Crew =D

Striving for the X-factor

Picture Description: Has Rewind got all the pieces of the puzzle to win HHI?

Well, its a sad time for me. Tomorrow, I'll be waving goodbye to my crew as they step through the International gates and board the plane for a 20-something hour flight to Los Angeles. So although I'm sad, its an exciting time for Rewind. The whole of last week has been refining the performance adding bits and pieces here and there to enhance the show and to satisfy the competition criteria ... but is all this tweaking really enough?

There are so many factors that go into winning a competition- There are factors you can control: "Have you shown enough variety in your choreography?" - "Have you got enough formation changes?" - "Is the music time frame too long or short? (with no swearing...)" - "Are the costumes comfortable yet attractive?" ...then there are external factors like: "Who are you competing against?" - "Who's judging you and what is their background?"...

Considering all of that, there is also the x-factor (and I'm not talking about the TV show!). What is the X-Factor? I don't really know - but for me, its just 'something' that makes you say "that show is the one thats gonna win...". If there were two crews who did similar shows- its the x-factor that would separate the one that wins and the one that comes second. I guess I would call it the overall 'Entertainment' factor but somehow i think its more than that...

I think it has something to do with the chemistry of the dance crew coming together and sharing their passion for dance to the world. Friendship, positive teamwork, fun and enjoying what you love doing the most: all of that comes across on stage as well.

Time creeps up so quickly when you do large scale comps like HHI - Questions about whether you have done this or completed that....and you get lost in whats important in the dance show- to simply enjoy the moment.

So to my krew: be confident and show them how we do it in Australia BUT don't lose sight of why we started dancing in the first place- to inspire others and share our passion to the world!...

Questions: Whats your definition of the X-Factor?

Rewind performs this weekend!

Picture Description: The Game, this weekend

Next week Rewind is set to leave to go to the US to take on 30 countries from around the world to compete in the Hip hop international dance comp. The nerves are definitely kicking in for most of the crew as rehearsals become more intense.

Rewind performed a ‘closed door’ show for a dance industry audience only last week. The audience consisted of many of our dance mentors in Melbourne to get feedback on the current show and they had many constructive criticisms of our show. As a result, Vince and the crew have reviewed the show and have decided to go through with a number of changes to the show- The bad thing is for us is it almost like re-doing a whole new show. In particular, song choice is going through an overhaul- that would mean mix will go through its 10th draft (and that’s definitely not the last).

The feedback was important to get the show to a world standard level. But, time is running short now and with Rewind leaving next week, the pressure is on to get the dance completed. Good thing is, Rewind works well under pressure…

If you want to see the show yourself to give us feedback, Rewind is showcasing the performance this Saturday, 3pm at ‘The Game’ Krump Competition at MMA. Please come down and show your support! (Check out the flier above for the details)

Rewind HHI Crew- Interview with Monica

Picture Description: Raw, Beatphonik talent- Monica

I first saw Monica as a crew member from the now disbanded, XS-Tekniq. In a short period of time, she has achieved a level style and execution that most dancers train years and years to obtain. This natural talent has lead her dance technique to be the envy of many female hip hop dancers in Melbourne. We're thankful and honored she has accepted to compete along side Rewind and with her involvement and I dont think we could have asked for a stronger line up of female dance talent for the HHI comp...(Watch out HHI...Mwahahahaha!)


Whats your full Name?: Monica Rivo

How long have you been dancing?:
I've been dancing since mid-2004..

Which crews have you performed with?:
I am forever grateful to XS-Tekniq, performing with this crew introduced me into the dance scene. Have also performed with Hey Mamma (collaboration with Vikings girls). Have been fortunate to dance with Rewind previously, alongside our American friends for a Van Son show. I am currently in Detour & Beatphonik with whom I've grown as a dancer in both crews. Love you guys! A huge thank you to all, especially the above, who've aided me through the journey so far. Your encouragement keeps me going.

What has been your most memorable experience with Hip hop dance and why?:
The memorable experiences have been throughout rehearsals, events & comps - particularly the 'Chess' show with Beatphonik.

As well as the wave of emotions whether it be the adrenalin generated by the cheers from the crowd, the uplifting feeling when executing choreography or the joy after a performance. It's been awesome to be able to share it all with my family BP. It's also been memorable to have met many great people, formed close friendships, not to mention meeting my beautiful guy James. It's been very rewarding to have inspired others to pursue dancing too!

Something quite unforgettable to me is a memory which begun years ago when I never knew hip hop dance crews existed. I watched in awe of Rewind performing at Mercury Lounge. During the dance I can recall saying to my mates, "Wow... I want to dance with them". From that memory I viewed Rewind a pioneer in the hiphop dance scene. They're a good bunch of friends who I still admire, and now it's an honor to compete against the world with you guys..... yippeeeee!

What are you looking forward to most about going to LA and competing at HHI?:
Am definitely looking forward to the warm weather & spending QT with Rewind. We'll be hitting the theme parks, taking dance classes, shopping & visiting our American buddies. In terms of competing at HHI, I can't wait to meet & watch the other talents from around the world and performing at such a high-level comp. The nerves & excitement will be flying high no doubt!

Do you have any tips for other hip hop dance crews or dancers?:
Some tips for aspiring dancers and those who are just starting out.. Dance with passion. If you love it, go for it. Encouragement helps but believe in yourself. Feedback will help you improve. Challenge yourself - attempt & experiment with different styles and practice makes perfect!

All the best,

Mon

Rewind HHI Crew- Jaimez

Picture Description: James (but call him Jaimez- he hates James)

To give you some background, Jamiez originally started his dance career in Sydney. I first saw him perform many, many years ago in a crew called 463. When he moved to Melbourne about a year later Jaimez joined a new Melbourne crew called XLR8 (of which I was also a member). Eventually, in 2000, XLR8 joined with another crew called 'The Renegades' and we decided to rename the new collaboration as 'Rewind'. Fast forward to 2007, Jaimez takes to the world stage in the HHI as an original Rewinder with an extensive performance history and dance experience. He continues to develop and evolve his style - and his talent, dedication to the dance and friendship is a major part of why Rewind is so successful today...


Whats your full Name?: James Bryan Fermalin.

How long have you been dancing?:
A very long time... and continuing to train & work on different styles...

Which crews have you performed with?:
Sydney Crews: XLR8, Oh Shore (aka 463), Recently featured with Beatphonik for Groove '07

REWIND for life!

What has been your most memorable experience with Hip hop dance and why?:
Meeting most of my close mates through the opportunities in dancing with other crews from Sydney & Melbourne. Being a part Rewind - my family...and meeting my girlfriend Monica... phwooaah (Your so sweet Jaimez! ~Wez)

What are you looking forward to most about going to LA and competing at HHI?:
The experience of competing against other countries and meeting the other crews. Plus the fun that we're gonna have, experiencing it all with my crew.. Just wish the rest of us could have made it... next time!!!

Do you have any tips for other hip hop dance crews or dancers?:
Keep dancing.. do as many classes as you can. Dance because you love it and enjoy it.. not for the fame.


Picture Description: Jamiez and Monica, from BP

A Weekend Review of Entertainment in Melbourne...

Thought I'd cover what Rewind has been up to other than the HHI. It was a bit of a struggle to get up Monday morning as I had quite an eventful weekend - International artists, Dance shows, Modeling, Djing, Musicals and Movies- Its damn tiring but I love the Entertainment industry :).

Friday night-

After my set at Bass Lounge, hopped over to my resident club Platform 1 to meet and check out Q from 112. His show wasn't too bad and he sang quite a few songs and worked the crowd really well. 112 haven't had too many hits lately, and his tour had an obvious link to his upcoming solo album as well as a new one from the 112 boys. The club was packed as expected with other local talent performing as well as the some of the Viking dancers. Can't wait for the next few acts: Amongst them is Bobby Brown (Humping Around, My Prerogative) and Cassie (Me and You, produced by Ryan Leslie) who is coming out to Melbourne in a month or so...

Saturday-

I caught the afternoon show of Miss Saigon. Musicals have have recently become something of a phenomenon for me, fusing dance, music and production at its highest quality. The talent in this show is unbelievable and I recommend that anyone into dance or entertainment production see this show.

Next week, Rewinds sponsor, Aspirations Hair will hold another 2 entries to the Catwalk competition at the annual "Hair in Fashion Australia" expo (This year at the Melbourne Convention center) with production supported by the Rewind team. I went to their rehearsals that evening to see how things were going and who the hotties were this year. (www.hbia.com.au for more info about the event)

Headed off to Hush Bar that evening and after rockin the crowd with my set, I met Vinnie from Naughty By Nature (OPP, Hip hop hooray, Holiday...) who was promoting the Roc the Block tour. It was great to meet a member of Naughty as they were a huge influence for me growing up in the hip hop scene.

Amongst other things happening this weekend was the Wanted Dance Hip hop dance comp (Judged by Vince, Liz and Robot girl) and Rehearsals for Czarinas upcoming album launch, also choreographed by Vince (I'll be Djing there too). Stay tuned for that.

Lastly, took some time out on Sunday to watch another huge influence for me growing up- Transformers! I must say that 'Transformers' is a great movie that everyone should watch!

3 Weeks to go to HHI...Keepin you posted

Wez

Rewind HHI Crew- Interview with Acey

Picture Description: Acey

I first got to know Acey (Short for his real name - Acey...A.C.) at a concert show at Dallas Brookes when he was still with Vikings a few years ago. Back then he was heavily into breaking which formed the basis for his dance experience as he branched off more into hip hop choreography with his involvement in Vikings, Detour and now, Rewind. His breaking background has made him into a very flexible and versatile Hip hop dancer- as its given him balls to never be afraid to try anything new, no matter how physically challenging the dance move/routine may be...

Other facts: He has also recently got married- congrats from all of us once again Ace! (Sorry girls, hes off the market...)

Full Name? Angelo Christ Rodriguez (Acey)

How long have you been dancing?
Since 2000.. which would make that 7 years

Which crews have you performed with?:
Vikings..Replay..Detour..Rewind..

What has been your most memorable experience with Hip hop dance and why?
Winning Shakedown 2006 with Rewind and Detour. Everyones hard work payed off in the end. It was the greatest!

What are you looking forward to most about going to LA and competing at HHI?
Meeting new people that share the same passion for dancing...and showing them how we do it down under. "Hows it going?" (Pronounced: Hars-it-gaaaan)

Do you have any tips for other hip hop dance crews or dancers?
Be happy and enjoy the moment. If you enjoy what you do then don't stop.

Acey


Picture Description: Twin Brothers? Vince and I at Village with the Candy bar attended who looked like Acey. Do you think they look the same?

2nd Crew, Psalms (Syd) representing OZ in HHI

Its about 30 days to go now till Rewind competes at the HHI and everything is slowing coming together. With some initial issues, the costumes are now finalised and ready to roll. I can only describe it as simple, effective and comfortable- and it should work well. The mix is currently undergoing its 7th draft as we look to chop it shorter from 2.09 min to 2.00 exactly. The rules are STRICT and we don't wanna f!@# our chances because of a formality...


Rewind leaves one week before the comp and most of the crew plan to stay at least 3 weeks. The US will under go its national comp a few days before where six of finalists will compete in the preliminaries. I figure this is a kinda 'filtering' round to boot out the shows which don't qualify on an international scale. Makes me wonder if the US will have a few entries who get past the prelims?

Video Description: Sydney crew, Psalms at Groove Blacktown

There is only one other second entry I know of from Australia. Representing Sydney is a crew called Psalms. They blew up on the dance scene in Sydney with their entries into the Groove competitions and Battlegrounds- taking out the national title last year (but still not beating NuSkool on the international side- a crew we would LOVE to compete against again...).

We don't know them personally but from what i have seen they are all very talented dancers (especially that damn lee roc- was he born with springs in his feet?) and we wish them all the luck whilst in LA. I cant really think of two better crews to represent our little ol' country of AUS.

Question: If you got the chance to fly an OZ crew to the US to represent Australia, which ones will you pick n why?
(examples? BP, 7 Sins, Psalms, NuSkool, oh ...and Rewind- Yes, you can say your own crew...)

Cohiba and Behind the Scenes

Picture Description: Vince doing Mario Vazques- Cohiba

Im back with a double this time...

'The Space' houses some of the best hip hop dance teachers in Melbourne. Heres another from one of Vinces classes at the space.

Check out the thespace.com.au for more info about classes there...



I cant really put up footage of HHI rehearsals so this is some footage of rehersals at United Styles, South Yarra- Its about a year old when Rewind and Detour first collaborated.

This vid also features *Yuta, who has now returned to Japan, trying on his 'banana in pajama' outfit for the first time. He did a krump set with this costume on in the middle of the dance!- we miss ya buddy!

(*Sorry Yuta, i had the Utah Jazz in my head for some reason ;p)

Rewind HHI Crew- Interview with Anna

Picture Description: Anna

Anna, a founding member of the Detour crew has been performing with Rewind for the past year for our shows at Metro, Basslounge and Platform 1, as well as being a driving force in our Shakedown win last year. Anna is quiet spoken by nature but you would never know when she steps on stage, where she displays her hip hop dance expertise with maturity and confidence. Also a talented costume and clothing designer, you would have seen her costume design work at the Shakedown comps (With the Rewind Logo on the back, Detour logo on the pants)...


Whats your full Name?: Anna Kristine Apurado

How long have you been dancing?:
I've been dancing since 2003

Which crews have you performed with?:
Vikings, Rewind, and of course DETOUR baby!!!! and other individual collabs and shows ...

What has been your most memorable experience with Hip hop dance and why?:
There's none specific - I've got heaps of memorable experiences, especially with Detour :).
From our first dance at GROOVE Melb 2003 - To winning SHAKEDOWN 2006 in collaborating with REWIND. I'm just thankful God gave me an oppurtunity to dance and perform and meet heaps of MAD ASS friends - and everything else that we got (like winning!!!) is just a bonus.

What are you looking forward to most about going to LA and competing at HHI?:
AAAaarrrggghh!!! I'm actually really scared.

H.H.I. - i'm interested and excited to just be apart of the atmosphere
and see first hand the CRAZY talents from around the world. Excited to meet
people from other cultures and how dance is a part of their lives.
And to go there and kick ass and show the world that Australia is
not just a loner in the Southern Continent, but we can shake our booty too!!
L.A. - SHOPPING!!!!! woohoo!!!! plus seeing another type of lifestyle?
I dunno what to expect coz everyone says that it's just the same as ours... so, hmm?
Also, Rodeo drive, Universal Studios and doing classes!!!

Do you have any tips for other hip hop dance crews or dancers?:
If dancing makes you happy and takes you to another world everytime you do it,
then try never to lose sight of that passion coz that's what gets you through life.
That, and dancing with a whole bunch of friends!

Anna

Iceboxed back in Melbourne

Video Description: Vince and Michelle rehearsing to Omarion- Icebox

Sorry for the lack of updates as I've been away in sunny state of Queensland enjoying the weather up there for a few days. I tell ya, coming back to 4 degrees in Melbourne was pretty hard to do! Freezing!

But I do have presents! Another gem from the Rewind database of videos. This ones at Unitd Styles- Vince rehearsing the extended routine of Icebox (Very appropriate with the weather how it is). Enjoy!

Ive also seen some previews of the final routine for the HHI competition and i gotta tell ya, It has to be Rewinds best work. We have lots of updates to come to stay tuned!

Rewind HHI Crew- Interview with Susie

Picture Description: Susie

The multi-talented Susana joined the Rewind crew in 2004 bringing a valuable performance history and a deep passion for the Hip-hop dance style. She is one of the most adaptable dancers I know, able to perform any type of chorey thrown at her (although she wont admit it) and a perfectionist by nature, she is always the first to nail a routine (damn her). So just a note: don’t stand next to her in a dance class or she’ll make you look bad…


So, whats your full Name?: Susana Le (aka susie)

How long have you been dancing?:
Since 2001, started by taking classes at Melbourne Uni, The Space and then
Unitd Styles when it first opened. Never looked back since. Thought about
taking it easy this year with gigs - but when the opportunity to dance
internationally with the most passionate dancers I know came up - I thought
to myself “let’s delay my retirement for another year...”

Which crews have you performed with?:
INQ (melb uni group with fellow rewinder STEVE), Dragons, REWIND, our close
friends Detour, Wickid Force and Beatphonik. Also performed with ‘the
Americans’ for Van Son 2004-2005 and Dance2xs for the You Got Served
promotional tour.

What has been your most memorable experience with Hip hop dance and why?:
Tough question Wes. I can't describe one MOST memorable experience.
Everytime i dance, whether it be in a class, at rehearsal or on stage, I’m
just so thankful to be given the ability to move and express myself in this
art form. To me, nailing new chory with friends is the best feeling.
Performing in front of a hyped audience is also amazing. Being a part of the
winning team at Shakedown 2006 has been the best achievement to date.

What are you looking forward to most about going to LA and competing at
HHI?:
I’m looking forward to a well earnt holiday!! I’m really excited about
travelling with my fellow Rewinders and hitting the rides at Disneyland and
Magic Mountain!!

In terms of the HHI competition, it will be eye opening to see what other
crews around the world have to give.

Do you have any tips for other hip hop dance crews or dancers?:
I’d say, if you love dancing – just do it. Make time for it. Train harder.
Get influenced by as many styles as possible. Listen to a wide variety of
music and beats. Practise. Be open-minded to criticism, be humble to
encouragement. Take a break – I often feel the urge to dance the most when I
haven’t for a while. It’s like renewing your passion. Absence of dancing
makes my heart grow fonder.

PIECING THE PUZZLE

Picture Description: Another random pic from our most recent practice for HHI 2007.
(I'll try for something a bit more interesting next blog =p)

Well w'ere getting closer to that date as there is only a month and a half to go till HHI 2007 in Los Angeles. Although Wes is still working hard with getting our mix together, last nite we finally started to put these routines next to each other with the music we have and I must say im very proud of what we have installed for HHI. I cant give too much away, but all I can say is this show will be HHOOOTT~!~!

I can probably speak on everyones behalf and say that we are acheing badly! but its a huge relief and very rewarding to be able to picture what this show may look like. All will be worth it in the end. =)

Thanks for reading ... again, and check back soon .

Peace. Steve

Vince- Turn the Page

Video Description: Vince does Bobby V with the gals from Dance2XS Melb

Hi again! Hope everyone is enjoying the long weekend if your reading from Burn City OZ...

I'm back again with another hotness dance class featuring Vinces rendition of 'Turn the Page'. This has to be one of my favorite routines to date! This clip also features some past members of D2XS Melb - another crazy Melb dance crew. Enjoy! Oh, and don't forget to leave us feedback!

Cheers

Wez

Rewind HHI Crew- Interview with Lizbeth

Picture Description: The Blitz Dancer

I consider all individuals in Rewind as 'stand out' dancers. But if anyone stands out from the 'stand outs', its this gal. Her signature style and dancing strength has made her one of Australia's most talented female dancers- and a valued member of the Rewind family. Lizbeth is actually how you spell her name but we just call her Lizzie - and she can give the energizer bunny a run for his money on the dance stage...


Whats your Name?: Lizbeth Calingasan aka Blitz...aka S.O.U.L

How long have you been dancing?:
I've been dancing for 13 years going on 14 years now and won't stop until I need a hip replacement...even then I don't think I'll ever stop moving my feet. You can't stop SOUL.

Which crews have you performed with?:
I've performed with Wickid Force, Detour and currently perform with The Hip Hop Movement Crew as well as dancing with being one of the founding members of Rewind Dance Productions . All of these crews have dancers that are close to my heart and are responsible for shaping me into the dancer I am today :). Shout out to Nikki Ashby aka Essentz (The Movement Hip Hop Crew) ,Demilition Bgirl (The Movement Hip Hop Crew), Lenny aka Enigma, Carlo aka Bboy Jester, Archie (Wickid Force), George (Wickid Force, and Yasushi (Wickid Force, The Movement Hip Hop Crew, Fireworks). Of course a big thankyou to all my Rewind people - you guys move me.

What has been your most memorable experience with Hip hop dance and why?:
My most memorable experience with Hip Hop dance would be the day that I found it and how it saved me. The rest of the experiences I've had will always be a roller coaster ride but I will never forget where I came from and the reason I started Hip Hop - to express myself with artistic freedom.

My trip to LA in late 2006 for 3 months alone would have had to have been my greatest Hip Hop learning experience as I learnt styles not commonly found here in Australia and made friends from around the globe. As I went through this experience I couldn't help but wish my crew Rewind was there with me :D.

What are you looking forward to most about going to LA and competing at HHI?:
I'm looking forward mostly to spending time with my REWIND peeps and of course those others helping us reprazent under the REWIND banner - Anna (Detour), Acey (Detour), and Monica (Beatphonik). I love each and every one of these people and I can't wait to make our mark as Australian Dancers with them in LA. We've all done competitions and now it's time to see where we stand against the world. Of course it's all in love :D.

Do you have any tips for other hip hop dance crews or dancers?:
Hmmmm...my quote for other dancers would be: 'Live life like there's no tomorrow, Work like you don't need the money, and Dance like no-one is watching you'. Dance because you love it and not for any other selfish reasons. 'Look for fame you'll lose your soul...Seek creativity and you will find it'. OH AND GOODLUCK TO ALL COMPETING...ONE LOVE...ONE WORLD...ONE PEACE.

END OF INTERVIEW
LATERS PEACE


Rewind Dance Productions
The Movement Hip Hop Crew

Vince- Last Night

Video Description: Vince displaying the Rewind Style to Keyshia Cole feat P Diddy- Last Night

Vince being the technologically challenged person he is (how odd that he used to study IT) has heaps of AWESOME classes on video.

So as a present each week, i'll be posting these to this site for your viewing pleasure- Enjoy!

Let me know what you think...

The Signature Move

Picture Description: Do you own this 'move'?

Rewind are always very strict when it comes to adhering dance comp rules and regulations. Reading over the HHI (extended) rules and conditions I noticed one paragraph which i found very interesting:

"Crews originating and utilizing one of a kind “signature” moves in their routines to increase creativity and audience response are cautioned to limit their use and set up time to avoid the risk of not performing a sufficient amount of hip hop dance choreography necessary for a high scoring routine. Crews are encouraged to be fresh and imaginative and to follow their own style and identity when creating a routine. Avoid emulating or being influenced by past World Champions routines, as there is no distinct style of a winning routine. Be yourself and express your crew's diversity with passion, intensity and style."

"Signature moves?", I thought to myself. "Does Rewind have such a move?"...

Rewind certainly has a signature style that is distinct from other crews (Mainly due to our talented choreographer Vince). I've also seen breakers with a signature moves but a dance crew?

The line about not getting influenced by past HHI's brings me to believe that these 'signature' moves are the showy 'blow up' moves- like Trinidad's swimming effect or the Filo All Stars 'tricks' and aerials. In other words, don't rely on pony tricks for the crowd - shows us some style and chorey...

Maybe winning means finding that balance i guess. Its def something Cheekybombs was criticised with at Aus Shakedown 05 (Too much blow ups, not enough chorey). Either way I'll be interested to see how well we go, as our style is a force to be reckoned with. Oh, and we have a few pony tricks up our sleeve as well :)

What do you think makes you stand out? Do you have a signature move? Does your crew have one?

~REWIND HHI 2007 CREW UNVEILED~

Picture Description: (Left to Right) Steve, Acey, Anna, Susana (Below), Vince, Liz, James and Monica

Well after taking a quick snapshot at one of our recent rehearsals, I can now reveal the gang that will be heading up to L.A to compete at the 2007 HHI. As mentioned earlier by Wes, certain Rewind members could not take the time off due to personal and work commitments and thus we have borrowed the talents from our close dance family; Anna and Acey from Detour as well as Monica from Beatphonik. (www.beatphonik.com)

We thank you guys for your dedication and know that this will be an awesome experience for us all. I love the diversity we have in this crew and just know that we will put together a mind boggling 2 min show of raw entertainment. I cant wait!!

Sorry to keep this blog so short, but if I talk too much, I'll have nothing left to say for the next one =p

Keep checking back for new updates and pics of our progress every few days. Thanks for reading.

Peace. Steve

Rewind HHI Crew- Interview with STEVE

Picture Description: Steve

As I mentioned, I'll be interviewing various members for the crew that are going to LA for HHI. First up is Steve! Steve will also be reporting back to you from LA on this blog to give you an insight whilst Rewind is over there...


Whats your full Name?: Steven Wong

How long have you been dancing?: Started taking classes in 2002/2003.

Which crews have you performed with?: INQ (Melbourne Uni Dance Group), Dragons, Liquid Express, a bit of freelancing and now of course REWIND =D

What has been your most memorable experience with Hip hop dance and why?: My most memorable experience has honestly been the friendships I’ve built through dancing. Its just like any other hobby where you meet a whole bunch of great people that you can relate to in one way or another. Oh yeh.. and winning a major dance competition with Rewind last year being Shakedown Crew Challenge 2006. That was one of my best nights ever! woo woo!!

What are you looking forward to most about going to LA and competing at HHI?: Very much so looking forward to the whole experience of meeting all the other crews. How often can you meet 25 different nationalities at once? Hopefully we can hang out with some of the other crews and run a muck around L.A!! Shopping for those rare items of clothing and shoes will be mad too, and trying to finish a super sized meal and heading to the adventure parks!!!!

Do you have any tips for other hip hop dance crews or dancers?: My tip for any aspiring dancers are those that are already in a crew. If you have a passion for something. Go for it, cause you never know where it will take you. Dont let others tell you otherwise. Its your dream, and only you can make it happen.

Thanks for all the support and wish us well in L.A!. Its an honour to represent Australia. ^_-

Peace. Steve

Jacqui (Rewind) and Mishanda at Odeon

Picture Description: Tracys Girls on stage at Odeon

For stuff thats happening on the side, It was an eventful Monday night as Tracy (Rewind's Award winning stylist) puts on a show at Odeon Nightclub at Crown Casino for ECO Hair products.

Some way to spend a Monday night! This was in the lead up to ECOs competition in Sydney where the girls will perform as well...

Posted some pics and a short vid for ya'll with Jacqui from Rewind Representing...

(Nice Chorey Michelle!)

Early Updates - 2 months to go...

Picture Description:Detour- Ana C, Kriss, Jayee, Anna A, Mandy and Acey

Ill be posting up interviews with all the member who are actually going to LA for this comp over the next month. Theres only a max of eight dancers allowed to compete. If you have been watching our shows over the last few months you would have noticed the crew grow to 15 dancers. Dilemmas!

In fact, the talented Detour crew and Rewind have been collaborating for some time now and as some of the Rewind crew were not able to compete (myself being one of them) it seems only natural that Detour was the first crew we turned to. We are also borrowing talent from another well known Melbourne crew, Beatphonik. I'll be chatting more to you about the individuals going down the track...

Whilst in LA, Steve will be updating you on the progress and status of the Hip hop competition to give you an insight over there.

Right now, i have to put my head down. Whilst Rewind is training up at Wesley College and United Styles, I'm busting my creative brain mixing a 2 min track for the guys and gals to dance to. I'm actually having trouble fitting a good mix of songs in such a short period of time. *Sigh*...actually, I'll come back to it later as i gotta leave to DJ now at Hush Bar, Melb Central...Till my next update...

Does anyone have any cool songs they can suggest?

"Rewind Dancers" vs "49 cent Tuna"

Picture Description: I think we need to sue some one at coles...

Whats a brand? According to our trust worthy friend Wikipedia:

"A brand is a symbolic embodiment of all the information connected to the product and serves to create associations and expectations around it. A brand often includes a logo, fonts, color schemes, symbols, and sound, which may be developed to represent implicit values, ideas, and even personality."

Rewind had its name and logo developed after our first gig. The little backward arrows with the swooshing arrow around it can been seen in much of our shows, on costumes or even props- After 7 years however it has become more than a logo- We hope our name and history has created expectations around what we can and have delivered to the Aussie hip hop dance scene...Let me ask you though, if you saw that sign above at Coles, were thinking "Australia's top dance crew" or "49cent cans for Tuna special..."

Although there was no qualifying comp from Australia to get into Hip hop International, we were invited last year but due to other commitments weren't able to go. Maybe there will be a qualifying comp in OZ soon- we arn't not too sure. I just wanted to clear the air for any other crew that was looking at going this year...

Don't worry- we intend to do the best we can to represent OZ and put us on the map...



Picture Description: Rewind Cash- Thrown to the crowd at our Las Vegas Show- worth more than Monopoly Money...

Do you have a crew? Have you just started one? how do you brand yourself?

Hip hop International- The Event

Picture: Rewind takes out Australia's Shakedown 06 Hip hop Dance Comp

The 28th and 29th of July will be a huge day for Hip hop dancers all over the world...


"The World Hip Hop Championship is an annual event produced by Hip Hop International, a Los Angeles based live event and television production company. The 2007 World Hip Hop Championship takes place July 28-29 in Los Angeles. The three-day event features panel workshops with legendary Hip-Hop dancers, an urban moves dance workshop, a popping and locking contest and more." (http://allhiphop.com/hiphopnews/?ID=7085)


As I understand the event has just been getting bigger and bigger every year. This year participating (according to hiphopinternational.com)…


"USA, Canada, Mexico, France, Trinidad & Tobago, Nigeria, Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, UK, Italy, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Latvia, South Africa, Australia, India, New Zealand, Singapore, Korea, China, Japan, Philippines, Mongolia, Morocco, Portugal, Bahamas, Belgium and more to come…"


Did you see Australia in that list? I guess I can reveal now that REWIND will be representing Australia in this competition! WOOT! I couldn't really say anything until now as the registrations and crew selection process was not final.But its locked in. Crew has been finalised - now the pain starts. I say pain because as dance competitions go, for the crew, it ain’t a walk in the park. It involves late nights and many many hours of rehearsal.



Although it is only a 2 MIN show- every 10 seconds of a song equates to many many hours of pain, happiness, frustration....*sigh*. The emotions will eventually be captured on film next year- Hosted by American Idol's, Randy Jackson they are planning to make a reality TV series around a single crew and the Hip hop international dance comp. Will make good viewing but i think they have that on their plate for next year...More posts to come :)

Does anyone know who entered from Australia last year (if there was any)?

"Rewind vs the world" blog begins...

“Rewind vs the world” blog begins……and what a sweet beginning it is. I’m excited because 1) I love reading blogs and this is MY first proper blog, and 2) because this is will be of interest to any dancer who’s part of a crew and wants to be the best crew in the world!…

In the world? You don’t know what I’m on about? Ahm, ahhh…well I better start from the beginning.

ME? I’m Wez- I dance in a dance crew called REWIND from Melbourne, Australia. It’s a nice little corner of the world. Rewind is a collective of 8 individual and talented dancers specializing in various styles of Hip Hop dance. I wouldn’t say Hip hop is THE most popular dance style here- not compared to Jazz, Ballet or other trained styles. To describe it, Hip hop dancing is “street”, “urban”, “raw”… and out here it is very much a sub culture that is slowly growing. There were almost no crews doing what we do when we started dancing together 7 years ago…

Today, I’m happy to say there are many crews (you guys call em ‘teams’ in the US)- each with different goals- dancing for fun…friendship…fitness…money..fame……or just to be the best damn crew there is.

We try to aim for all of the above ;P. For some shows however, we don’t care so much about the money, or the fame, or the fitness- It’s just about being the best- the rest is just a bonus…

I guess this is why I’m starting this blog.

Video: Phillipine All Stars: The Best in the World?

What does it take to be the best crew in the world? And is winning really everything?

..or are you just saying “What the hell are you talking about”…Well…Ill let you in on a secret later this month…