The U.S. Air Force Academy's all-male a cappella group goes by the name In The Stairwell. Formed by freshmen cadets in 2004, the group took inspiration for its namesake from the only place it was allowed to practice singing together: the dorm stairwells. Hopefully they weren't discouraged, as "the stairwell rehearsal" is a time-honored acoustical tradition!  

The 16-member group earned a chance to audition for "America's Got Talent" after a producer for the show saw In The Stairwell sing Jason Mraz's hugely popular song "I'm Yours" and a little number called "Over the Rainbow."

"Their audition video was shown to AGT producers, who picked their favorites and showcased them to NBC executives," said Lt. Col. Kris Conde, Air Force entertainment liaison.

On Tuesday night, In The Stairwell was one of 12 acts to perform in front of the judges. The Colorado Springs, CO, group's rendition of "Drag Me Down" by One Direction earned nearly universal acclaim and also clinched In The Stairwell a spot in the next round.

In the Stairwell on AGT

While In The Stairwell received a "red X" from one judge, Howie Mandel, the rest of the panel praised the performance.

"Performing for AGT judge Simon Cowell was by far one of the coolest experiences that our group has ever had the opportunity to be a part of," In The Stairwell vocalist Thomspon Knox said. "America will be surprised."

In The Stairwell's Audition Video

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