Twist and Shout

Turn back time, one last time, with this '60s-themed dance party

First published on 28 Apr 2011. Updated on 25 Jun 2012.

This event has finished

It is with dewy eyes and heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Twist and Shout (for a moment), which will be holding its last ever party at Spectrum this Friday night. Doctor J, Dylabollical and Mr Chat will be spinning tunes by artists from Pink Floyd to Aretha. R.E.S.P.E.C.T. We'll see you in your new home soon, Twisty.

While the eyes are misting, a trip down memory lane: our review of a Twist and Shout party from yesteryear, when Twist was a party at Surry Hills venue Tone.

Review: Jackson Five's 'I Want You Back' says it all – we want the '60s back! That's the song playing as we slink into Tone. Usually the spot for the hottest underground beats, tonight the Surry Hills venue is hosting '60s dance party Twist & Shout. Hip-hop steps, heavy bass and anything else that's 21st century mainstream are left at the door. This party is a time warp.

DJs Mr Chad, Le Simonje' (Black Cherry), and Dylaboilical take their turn spinning the oldies to a surprisingly youthful crowd (most not even a twinkle in their parents' eyes in the '60s). Ironically, the tunes come courtesy of a Macbook pro and a tonne of CDs rather than vinyl (unlike Goodgod's Jingle Jangle). But this is our only gripe of the evening.

Twenty and 30-somethings adopt the twist and the mashed potato into their drunken dance moves and the DJ booth is lit up with black-and-white projections of iconic films from the era, like The Graduate and Breakfast at Tiffany's. From 9pm to late, expect a dancefloor blur of mod-style dresses and hippie-chic ensembles.

Take a breather at the large, round leather booths and sway to favourites like 'Brown Eyed Girl' and 'Purple Haze'. Refuel at the bar, but be careful – when we asked the bartender what he recommended, a "do you want to get drunk?" enquiry was followed by a deadly Long Island Ice Tea.

If you're in need of a refreshing night out, this throwback party is the place. Enjoy the best of 60s rock, British invasion, soul surf, garage, rhythm and blues and psychedelic music. And frock up while you're at it. Rebecca Fox