Six styling crews are raring to go in this 4th episode of Randy Jackson’s America’s Best Dance Crew. The movements needed for this week’s competition are based on what is called the Whack Track challenge. The teams will have to rock old school dance crazes in a modern way. Only four of the crews will be safe and move on to next weeks show.


First safe crew is Quest Crew, who got to rock a master mix of NKOTB’s “The Right Stuff.” The boys took “whack” and made it “WOW!” There was instant awe and illusion as member Hok had reversed his clothes and appeared to be upside down. This stunt fooled everyone watching; we thought he did a pendulum on his hands. Their gymnastics were just so phenomenal this week, and I actually—for a first time—agreed with Judge JC Chasez as he highlighted Steve Terada, who did a totally impressive giant kick flip. Their tight choreography was filled with imaginative moves and a lot of cute humor. Again, Quest is an A+.

The second team to make it to next weeks episode was the Strikers All-Stars. Their whack challenge was set to a master mix of “Too Legit to Quit” by MC. Hammer. Host Mario Lopez introduced the team and asked if can they modernize Hammer’s moves, and I think the answer would be no. Don’t get me wrong, the guys started strong with awesome gymnastics and stomping, but their dance just looked like a copy. There was nothing truly modern about it. That being said, they were in and out of unison as they imitated Hammer-like dance movements, but they did copy Hammer to a tee. They also get kudos for undressing, but they don’t get creative points this week.

Without a doubt, the fourth team that are safe for next week is Beat Freaks. The last two teams waiting for their status was Fly Khicks and Dynamic Edition. Surprisingly, Dynamic Edition is out of harm’s way and prepared to take the stage without worry of going home tonight.

Beat Freaks got to get their groove on to a master mix of The Offspring’s “Pretty Fly for White guy.” This rock song is just all around fun and cute, but member Torosa Espinosa admitted that they usually dance to songs that are in their hip-hop comfort zone. Torosa did not have to worry because they totally killed it. From their Orange County ska costumes to their choreography, Beat Freaks brought it all. I, like Shane, was happily awed with the head spin by Lady Jules. Other moves that stood out were members popping into back spins while another pair of members jumped off the stage. This packed performance was totally flawless.

Dynamic Edition may have gotten really lucky this week as their master mix was “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus. I thought a song like that, which is very country/pop, might work against them since they might forgo hip-hop choreography for clogging comfort. Their footwork was so fast this week that all the judges were happy with the unblemished performance. They were cute this week, but they aren’t in the same league as the other crews. I sincerely felt their whole shtick was just mediocre.

What can I say about Fly Khicks and Ring Masters? I really dislike Fly Khicks. Paint drying is more entertaining than these girls. They just don’t have the “it” factor in comparison to Beat Freaks or even season one’s Fysh and Chicks. The best teams this week brought humor, besides skill and creativity, like Dominic losing his trousers or the Beat Freak girls acting like JC Chasez fan girls. I don’t see Fly Khicks losing their trousers with the same class. That being said, they were the last to perform and Ring Masters were up next.

Fittingly, Ring Masters had to utilize a master mix to “The Macarena.” Flexing, their type of dancing, could have been totally awesome for this song. Even though they brought diverse choreography this time, they lack the experience to hone their skills. They are just short of being a true dance team. This performance was good, but it wasn’t great yet. I still wanted them back next week.

Fly Khicks had a master mix C&C Music Factory “Everybody Dance Now” to interpret. However, this song was appropriate for the girls who are half-time cheerleaders. Can anyone say Jock Jams? Again, the girls started up their performance with humping the air. How boring! These cheerleaders need to dance on home; they are too feminine to truly be. I totally disagreed with Shane Sparks and his *Cough~hogwash~Cough* saying these girls came to win and not to be cute. Everything they did was cute and smiley, even the mid-air running man was done with a cheerleader grin.

All in all Fly Khicks are coming back to get the beat down from Beat Freaks. Next week 5 teams are left GO QUEST~! GO BEAT FREAKS!

This blog posting is part of the ABDC Season 3 Ningin Coverage Event.