Battle of the Year (International) 2015 - Review

The Battle of the Year in Braunschweig (Germany) is a cult event. This year you could see again to what extent Hip Hop and B-Boying connect people and how much influence this art form has. 15 teams from all over the world and about 6.000 visitors came to be part of the biggest showdown of the year and to support the culture.

First of all the international jury, this year consisting of Mounir (France), Kujo (USA), Katsu 1 (Japan), the Red Bull BC One Allstar Menno (Netherlands) and B-Boy legend Crazy (Switzerland) was presented to the audience. For his 50th anniversary and all the activities he has done during the last three decades Walter Petrongolo aka Crazy received the Battle of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award by Thomas Hergenröther, Niels Robitzky and Mode 2. The moderators duo D-Stroy and Spax led the audience through the event with esprit, charm and real Hip Hop attitude. The slogan that night was "This is Hip Hop". On the turntables the DJs Smirnoff (Russia), Fleg (USA) and Mar Ski (Japan) provided good beats and breaks.

The only representers from Africa this year were the Tribal Dance Crew from Senegal who opened the colourful and multi-cultural show night with a lot of temperament and rhythm. Some BOTY newcomer crews such as the MOS crew from Brazil and the Metro Grooverz from Thailand delivered great shows full of energy and ensured a good atmosphere. The German crew The Saxonz fascinated the audience with a special combination of musicality and acrobatics as well. With classical elements and an extract from Beat Street the Floorriorz transported the audience in old times. The Soul Mavericks dared also a journey in to the past and staged their blow-ups and routines on well-known beats from the 80ies. However, the highlight of the night was the Spanish crew Doble K.O. Team from Granada/Badajoz. Due to their Spanish flavour, their top-class choreography and their risky moves they got the prize for the best show.

In the end six crews got the desired entry for the battles. The thrilling final was staged by The Floorriorz from Japan and Kienjuice from Belarus. The guys from Kienjuice attracted attention with very long routines in each battle but it all didn't help against the Japanese dancers. After many years and the eternal second place Japan won the battle this year. The Floorriorz showed an own style, a special team spirit and astonishing tricks. These amazing dancers, who really deserve this title, can now proudly call themselves NEW YORKER Battle of the Year Champion!

In addition to the official shows and battles there was also the Bonnie & Clyde Battle with a special showact. Here the winners of the Bgirl battle and the 1st and the 2nd winner of the 1vs1 Battle danced in mixed teams. Ayane & Menno could decide the hot battle in their favour. Besides all dance enthusiasts experienced a world premiere that night: Together with the famous dancers of the group Bad Newz MP further stars of the Urban Dance scene like Lil Amok and Flockey staged an incredible show named "Evolution" for the first time in the BOTY history.

Here you will see the official video review:
https://youtu.be/xx8qVkI2Wrw