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While the continent-crossing competitive reality show the travel contest wasn't quite the seasonal hit the broadcaster had anticipated, it did give presenter Brydon a lovely glow-up. The convoluted coach trip aimed to project a jet-setting vibe, so the show's host was outfitted in deluxe tailoring: boldly coloured matching ensembles, smooth neckwear and nautical jackets. All of a sudden, he acquired the debonair look to match his classic Roger Moore impression.

A Thematic Wardrobe and Country Music

His latest trilogy of episodes, Brydon's Country Music Expedition, also features some Mr Benn-style costume changes. The affable comedian goes full western rancher sporting plaid tops, rugged jackets and sometimes a cowboy hat. This complements of a premise where he piloting an imposing American truck across thousands of miles through southern states to learn quickly about the musical genre.

Brydon has been tasked celebrating the centenary of the genre – or at least the century mark of the Nashville radio show that evolved into the iconic venue, foundation and star-maker of country music over decades – through the classic celebrity travelogue tradition of road tripping, gabbing to locals and immersing himself in the culture. This anniversary aligns with the genre's rise as, according to him, “the most rapidly expanding music style in Britain” – thanks to Taylor Swift and new country-inspired records from Beyoncé, famous singers and others – provides additional perspective to explore.

Road Trip Experience and Personal Doubts

It's established he enjoys long drives and a chinwag thanks to the various incarnations of his travel series alongside his comedy partner. But at first he appears uncertain about his credentials as a presenter. Observing him speak with an in-car lens certainly brings back recollections of a character, the sad-sack cabby from Brydon's TV breakthrough, Marion & Geoff. Traveling toward Nashville, he calls his sitcom collaborator Jones for a pep talk. She recalls his some genuine country bona fides: a past charity single of Islands in the Stream topped the charts. (“The original artists reached seventh place!” she points out.)

Interview Skills and Cultural Immersion

While the overwhelming experience during an evening in the city is a little too much for Brydon – trying to dance with the UK actor now musician results in him giving up early in Shania Twain song – the veteran comedian is far less steady during conversations. His respectful interview style seem to gel with southern manners, efficiently extracting anecdotes about legends and general musings about the essence of country music from silvery-haired veterans like the institution's mainstay Bill Anderson and 92-year-old celebrity clothier a fashion icon. His gentle manner also works with newer artists, like the scraggly-bearded chart-topping singer and the bluegrass banjo maestro Tray Wellington.

Although several the anecdotes feel well worn, the first installment does contain at least one genuine curveball. What on earth is the pop star doing hanging out in a homely recording space? Apparently he has been coming the state to hone his songwriting for decades, and cites Glen Campbell as an influence on Take That's bulletproof ballad a classic song. Finally, we meet a guest he can tease, joke with and wind up without worrying about creating a diplomatic incident. (The good-natured star, participates willingly.)

Broader Implications and Unscripted Moments

Given a hundred years of country to explain and celebrate, it is understandable that this southern-fried tour across two states (with pit stops in Virginia, Alabama and Mississippi upcoming) wants to focus on music and without needing to address contemporary issues. Yet it inevitably but seep in some elements. During an appearance on the polished program on the local broadcaster WSM – proud founder of the famous show – the host humorously asks whether the nations maintain good relations, which throws his slick hosts from their rhythm. The audience doesn't see to see presumably icy aftermath.

Ideal Presenter for the Format

Despite his apparent self-doubt, he is obviously a good fit for this type of lighthearted series: friendly, engaged, modest and always ready for costume changes, although he has difficulty locating a fancy cowboy shirt that comes in a medium. Should Coogan be concerned that his wingman can do solo hosting alone? Definitely.