The 96ers, who call their sound “trash folk,” drew enough support from the judges to continue on in America’s Got Talent despite mixed reviews of their audition. In full Southern-bell swagger, the group appeared before AGT led by a Wisconsin-born man whose grandfather was an oil field worker and as such brought layers of outlaw-country feel to their Opry-infused stage.
The singer said he’s from Texas (which is good for him), and he worked in the oil fields, just like his family Having only formed together for three months, the group was ready to put its original songs in front of a nationwide audience.
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They performed an original, “Rhinestone,” a catchy-catchy country song with those signature hooks that are accessible and should earn them points but left just slightly rough around the edges in more of an outlaw fashion. The judges were split – it included an honest performance of their natural selves written all over the band’s faces. People found other country tropes were played, and the lead singer’s vocal was not that memorable. At one point, the act even led to jokes that “the law might be after him,” certainly playing into the reputation of the band as bad boys.
Howie Mandel said he liked how authentic the band was, with their realness being what sets them apart. Mel B also conceded that the act had presence but marked them down for being off-key, voting against. Sofia Vergara liked how catchy it was and its entertaining quality, while Simon Cowell said he loved the song–but would take the the lead singer’s vocal performance.
Due to the negative responses, the team found it possible to get the total number of votes needed to move ahead. With a result of three votes yes, and one no, The 96ers moved into the next phase, proving that at times originality and character can be more important than technical perfection. Their fusion of countryside-based stories together with their unrefined energy gives hope for future progress.
