Ep 8. Azonto

Two words perfectly describe the Step Up: High Water season 2 episode 8 - Azonto: Intense and Electrifying. The 8th episode of this popular dance drama series emanates an invigorating ensemble of dazzling dance routines, staggering twists and hauntingly emotional solos.

The episode kicks off with the double solo performance of Janelle (Lauryn Alisa McClain) and Tal (Petrice Jones). Both of these two have been struggling with their relationship ever since the Miss Cape Cod incident. They’ve been trying to rekindle the spark while dealing with their personal issues. Their dance performance truly confirms their chemistry and how beautifully they have been able to put their personal issues aside. The judges applaud the performance and wish Janelle and Tal to be together forever.

Next up are the dance duo Poppy (Chelsea Tavares) and Uncle Al (Faizon Love). Poppy who’s been more focused on her career is seen helping Uncle Al refine his moves and their coordination as a duo. Dressed in traditional Ghanaian Kente cloth, the duo takes on the Azonto dance style which originates from West Africa. The judges are spellbound by their wild and insane energy and commend their strong chemistry. In the meantime, Uncle Al confronts Poppy about his deteriorating health and subtly hints that the duo's future performances may be put on hold. Meanwhile, King (Ne-Yo) pits the performers against each other for his own agenda by announcing that next week will be solo performances only.

Odalie’s (Jade Chynoweth) performance is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated of the episode. So far, she’s been taking it easy and not putting in too much effort. She’s being coached by an award-winning choreographer who’s been working with her on a contemporary piece for the showcase. Her dance raises a lot of questions about what she's going through and if it’s related to the loss of her mom. Everybody is impressed by the performance and Isabella (Aisha Alfa) remarks that Odalie has just sealed her spot as a finalist for the solo performances.

Next up is Rigo (Terrence Green), who’s been in a bit of funk lately. He’s been feeling pretty low about losing the internship and also discovering that his family may be in jeopardy of being sent back to Mexico. Despite everything, he put everything aside to perform the Argentine Tango with his new dance partner, Haley (Allie Grant). His performance is romantic and deep-seated with emotions. However, Rigo’s friend chooses this time to break out the news about his family looking at an unfortunate probability of being deported.

King is stalling a couple of performers after the show for separate meet-ups, revealing elusive pieces of his carefully crafted grand plan for Atlanta’s perennial Step Up dance team. He’s convinced Sage (Naya Rivera) is his muse to save the team from financial ruin. In their meeting, Isabella (Aisha Alfa) is doting on Odalie but Sage remains critical of her. Sage’s critique throws Isabella off-balance and sets Odalie into the state of self-doubt. King finally communicates his overall plan to put the performers to test and prepare them for the finals.

This episode is a definite hit among Step Up: High Water fans. From Cheryl's (Jinny Jacinto) cameo to the electrifying dance performances to the unfolding drama, Azonto is a fantastic all in one package. With well-acted performances, an excellent script, and fantastic direction, this episode delivers the complete package of dance and drama. Every performance showcased an abundance of skilled and thrilling choreography and captured the story's essence brilliantly. Azonto is simply an unmissable episode that one cannot afford to miss.