No one expected “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)” to sound like this. One moment it was one of the biggest pop hits of the ’90s, the next it had roaring guitars, thunderous drums, and powerhouse vocals that instantly won over the audience. Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and KSI were hooked within seconds, giving the band four emphatic yeses as the crowd erupted in cheers

Britain’s Got Talent returned to television screens this evening (February 28) with a fresh episode featuring auditions from the Lancashire coastal resort of Blackpool.

Yet within moments of the programme starting, viewers found themselves expressing identical reactions to the opening performer. Bournemouth-based boyband SOS kicked off proceedings with their interpretation of the Backstreet Boys’ classic, Everybody (Backstreet’s Back).

Their hard rock take on the track instantly captivated the studio audience, and the band secured four yes votes from judges Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden and KSI, who became a permanent member of the judging panel this series.

Home viewers were equally enthused, with many taking to social media to share their opinions on the band, reports the Mirror.

“A great start to the show – this is right up my street. We don’t get many rock bands on #BGTand I love this version of the song they performed. I enjoyed the performance,” one ITV viewer enthused.

“Oh yeah my vibe,” another wrote, whilst a third observed: “SOS- fantastic audition that’s how how you do it!” A further fan, heaping praise on the group, said: “Backstreet Boys and Rock. That’s right up my street.”

The alternative rock outfit comprises lead vocalist Josh Vaughan, Sparxx Jenkins, Ash Jenkins and Josh Rose. Earlier today, the band revealed to their followers they would feature on the programme, sharing on their social media accounts: “Huge news. We are buzzing to finally announce that your boys will be ON THE TELLY.

“Tune in to Britain’s Got Talent tonight at 7pm on @itv and @itvxofficial to see if we can rock the judges world.”

Supporters quickly filled the comments section with messages of encouragement, with one fan writing: “We can’t wait to watch you we’ve followed you on your journey. You’ve always been great performers with great talent. Good luck we will be glued to your performance tonight along with the rest of your many fans.”

Another follower commented: “Good luck guys you show them and Simon Cowell you can rock the roof of that place and proof to the judges that you’ve got what takes to beat all the other acts. I’ve been following you guys for years and i believe in you guys your gonna rock that night away.”