VEGAS TRIO COMPETING FOR NBC’S ‘NASHVILLE STAR’

A Las Vegas group has made the finals of NBC's reality show "Nashville Star," which premiered Monday night. Third Town, a last-minute replacement, sang "Elvira" to mixed reviews.

Jewell, one of the three judges, told the performers "we've got to figure out how to make you a modern act." John Rich of Big & Rich said someone in the trio "has to be the lead singer."

Singer-songwriter Jeffrey Steele said he felt "like I was at a county fair."

Third Town, formed 14 years ago, replaced finalist Charla Corn, who was dismissed on Sunday, one day before the taping of the season premiere. According to reports, producers didn't feel Corn's talent was up to snuff.

They advanced to the next week's episode.

The group hails from San Antonio but moved to Las Vegas to chase their dream of making it. Before getting the call, each was performing separately in shows to pay the bills.

They are the oldest participants in "Nashville Star." Jeffrey Fairchild is 37, James A. Kouns, 29 and Tony 'Little Tony" Mosti, 35.