It was night two of America’s Got Talent live shows and 12 more of the 36 acts that made it through took the stage in hopes of winning America’s votes.
“The level of talent is better than it’s ever been,” judge Howie Mandel commented. “I said to the talent, they had to bring it and America would vote.”
Up first was dance troupe Flip, one of this season’s three Wild Card acts – an act that was eliminated that the judges brought back for a second chance.
“I really love what you do,” Howie said. “You’re spectacular. You’re flawless, but for some reason, it seemed more like a backup dance for a lead singer.”
Judge Heidi Klum, on the other hand, stood up for Flip. She said, “I loved all the different elements you brought to the act — Bollywood, hip hop, and I loved your costumes.”
Former Broadway performer Moya Angela, who now lives in Las Vegas where she teaches music to kids, was the second act of the night. She took on the difficult task of performing Whitney Houston‘s “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength.”
Mel B told her, “That is a beautiful song, but I have to be honest, I have heard that done better. I am disappointed in you tonight. I hope America votes you through, but I think you were a little off tonight.”
In contrast, judge Simon Cowell said, “I understand just how difficult this business is and trying to get a break. I felt the song was stunning. My only issue is that you are always a little too polite. I want you to let go more.”
Amazing juggler Viktor Kee proved that the third time is the charm. Unlike with the first two acts, the judges were all in consensus that he did a great job.
Heidi said, “I am just mesmerized. You hatched out of an egg, you look like an alien and what you can do with your balls is amazing! I think you are fantastic.”
Simon added, “I really like you and I hate jugglers, but you’ve changed my mind. Not only do I think you are the best juggler in the world, but you know how to put on a show. You pulled out the stops tonight.”
Small-town girl Kadie Lynn grabbed her guitar and entertained with her rendition of Maren Morris‘ “My Church.”
Simon complimented her, saying, “I think we found ourselves a little superstar here. I really do. I loved your first audition, and when you make the semi-finals, I want to strip you back to just a guitar. You are what we call: “Made in the U.S.A.”
Howie admitted, “I don’t love that genre of music. It’s not what I listen to. What I find amazing is that a 12-year-old has that voice and that charm. You are amazing.”
Ryan Stock and Amber Lynn performed an act that you definitely don’t want to try at home – especially because Ryan injured himself at the end of the performance.
Howie said, “I hate that I saw what can happen. You need to see an EMT.”
Mel B added, “I don’t like what you do but I can appreciate the danger. I am sorry, but I still give you credit for coming on this show.”
Heidi said that it really scared her, and Simon stopped them all, saying, “We shouldn’t be judging this act. He needs to get to a doctor.”
Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer act and teen cancer survivor Calysta Bevier was next to take the stage. Her song choice was Sara Bareilles‘ “Brave.”
Simon admitted he had never felt so nervous for an act because he really wanted this to happen for her. He added, “You got the Golden Buzzer. You are an inspiration. You made me so proud. I hope America picks up the vote because we have to see you in the semi-finals.”
Howie told her, “You should feel proud. You are inspirational. It was the first flawless act of the night.”
Mel B added, “It was flawless from beginning to end.”
Simon’s Golden Buzzer contestant was followed by Reba McEntire‘s Golden Buzzer choice, contortionist Sofie Dossi, who brought all four judges to their feet.
Heidi told her, “I think you are so good. Even though it is so similar to what we’ve seen you do before, it’s bigger and better.”
Simon said she’s an incredible performer and he loves her story. She is getting better and better.
Mel B. pointed out, “People don’t understand how much body strength and power you have to have to do what you do.”
The Clairvoyants – Amelie and Tommy – decided to change up their act. They had the judges select jelly beans out a jar, eat them and then Amelie guessed the flavors.
Simon said, “You are aliens from another planet. This is more than magic. This is the creepiest thing I have seen in my live, but it is so creepy, I love it. I feel like I have been haunted. You two are incredible. I love you.”
Howie called them amazing, scary and awe inspiring. Then he suggested, “Are you in America’s head right now to get them to vote for you?”
The third Golden Buzzer winner of the night was Heidi’s choice: Sal Valentinetti. The crooner put his unique spin on One Direction‘s “Story of My Life,” with the goal of bringing the two generations together.
Heidi threw kisses at Sal, saying, “You are my golden boy. You are super handsome tonight. You were silky and smooth.”
Simon said, “This show feels like a finale. You are a showman. You need to have a sense of humor singing this kind of stuff. You rose to the occasion”
Howie was more critical, suggesting, “I think you’ve got to stick to the standards.”
High flying acrobats Throwings increased the danger in their act by adding strobe lights.
Mel B couldn’t believe that they did the act that caused Annie to break her spine. She said, “Talk about literally putting your life on the line. It was thrilling and I loved it.”
Heidi felt they were fantastic and breathtaking, but Simon buzzed them, saying he wanted to see something new. Other than the strobe lights, he felt it was the same thing they had done previously. Howie disagreed.
Steven Brundage was the second Wild Card act of the night. He is known for doing the Rubik’s Cube magic, and he amped up the magic in order to get to the next level.
Heidi wasn’t sure it was magci, but she said it was fantastic.
Simon said that it was Howie and he who wanted Steven to come back. Howie said Steven deserved to be there. “You blew me away.”
The final act of the night was quick-change artists Sos and Victoria.
Simon said, “It is clever but you are annoying. I am not sure if it is the music or the weird dancing. I should have liked it but for some reason I didn’t tonight.”
Heidi said, “I really like this kind of thing. I hope America will vote for you. I would love to see you again.”
Mel B said she actually was looking forward to seeing them, but wondered why Victoria wasn’t smiling? She didn’t look as if she was enjoying it.
Howie said it is a form of magic and fashion, and he started watching the fashion and he didn’t love the dresses. He didn’t think this was their best
America’s Got Talent returns tomorrow night on NBC when it is revealed which seven acts America put through.
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