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Although the continent-crossing competitive reality show the travel contest wasn't quite the seasonal hit the broadcaster were hoping for, it provided host Rob Brydon a stylish transformation. The convoluted coach trip clearly wanted to project a jet-setting vibe, so its master of ceremonies was outfitted with premium suits: vibrant three-piece suits, silky cravats and nautical jackets. Unexpectedly, Brydon had the sophisticated appearance to match his classic 007 impersonation.

A Thematic Wardrobe with Musical Roots

The newest three-part series, Brydon's Country Music Expedition, includes some Mr Benn-style thematic wardrobe. The genial Welshman goes full western rancher in a parade of flannel shirts, rugged jackets and the occasional cowboy hat. This complements the concept where he driving a massive Ford Ranger pickup truck across thousands of miles through southern states for a crash course about the musical genre.

Brydon has been tasked with marking the centenary of country music – or at least the century mark of the Nashville radio show which became the Grand Ole Opry, foundation and star-maker of country music over decades – through the classic star-led journey tradition of driving around, chatting with residents and engaging deeply with traditions. This anniversary aligns with the genre's rise as, he claims, “the most rapidly expanding music style in Britain” – due to global superstars and recent countrified albums from Beyoncé, famous singers and various performers – provides additional perspective for examination.

Road Trip Experience With Insecurities

It's established Brydon is up for long drives and conversations because of the various incarnations of The Trip alongside his comedy partner. But at first he appears uncertain about his credentials to be our guide. Observing him confide to a dashboard-mounted camera certainly brings back recollections of a character, the melancholy driver from his early career, Marion & Geoff. Traveling toward Music City, he phones his sitcom co-star Ruth Jones for a pep talk. She reminds him that he has some genuine music credentials: their 2009 charity single of a classic duet topped the charts. (“Dolly and Kenny reached No 7!” she points out.)

Conversational Talents With Local Engagement

While the overwhelming experience of a night out in the city proves challenging for Brydon – trying to dance alongside a performer now musician results in him tap out during the opening Shania Twain song – the veteran comedian is much more wobbly legged in the interview segments. His respectful interview style blends well with southern manners, efficiently extracting Johnny Cash stories and reflections on the spirit of the genre from experienced elders like the Grand Ole Opry fixture Bill Anderson and nonagenarian tailor-to-the-stars Manuel Cuevas. His gentle manner is effective with newer artists, like the bearded chart-topping singer and the instrumental virtuoso a talented musician.

While some of the stories seem familiar, the opening episode does contain a single unexpected moment. What on earth is the pop star doing hanging out in a cozy east Nashville studio? Reportedly, he's been coming the state to refine his compositions since the 1990s, and cites a country icon as an influence on Take That's bulletproof ballad Back for Good. Finally, we meet a guest he can tease, mock and wind up without worrying of causing a diplomatic incident. (The good-natured star, is very game.)

Cultural Context and Unscripted Moments

With an entire century of the genre to explain and honor, it is understandable that this southern-fried tour across two states (including visits in Virginia, Alabama and Mississippi upcoming) aims to concentrate on music and without needing to engage with contemporary issues. But it cannot help includes some elements. During an appearance on the polished program on the local broadcaster WSM – proud founder of the Grand Ole Opry – the host humorously asks whether the nations are still friends, disrupting the polished presenters from their rhythm. We do not get to see chilly response.

Ideal Presenter in This Role

But for all his visible insecurity, he is obviously a good fit for this sort of lighthearted series: friendly, interested, self-effacing and always ready to dress the part, even if he struggles to find a fancy cowboy shirt that comes in a medium. Should Coogan be concerned that his wingman is capable of the whole travelogue thing alone? Absolutely.