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Although the Euro-hopping reality competition Destination X wasn't quite the seasonal hit the BBC had anticipated, it provided host Rob Brydon a stylish transformation. The complex bus journey clearly wanted to give off a jet-setting vibe, so the show's host was outfitted in deluxe tailoring: boldly coloured three-piece suits, smooth neckwear and nautical jackets. All of a sudden, Brydon had the sophisticated appearance complementing his vintage 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 thematic wardrobe. The affable comedian goes full Yellowstone cowpoke in a parade plaid tops, rugged jackets and sometimes a cowboy hat. This complements the concept where he driving a massive American truck on a 2,000-mile circuit through southern states for a crash course in country music.

His mission involves celebrating the hundredth anniversary of the genre – specifically the 100th anniversary of the legendary broadcast that evolved into the Grand Ole Opry, foundation and star-maker in the industry for generations – via the time-honoured star-led journey approach involving road tripping, gabbing to locals and immersing himself in the culture. That the centenary aligns with the genre's rise as, he claims, “the most rapidly expanding music style in Britain” – thanks to global superstars and new country-inspired records from multiple artists, Post Malone and others – provides additional perspective for examination.

Road Trip Experience With Insecurities

We know he enjoys a road trip and conversations thanks to the various incarnations of The Trip alongside his comedy partner. Initially he appears uncertain if he is truly qualified to be our guide. Watching him speak with an in-car lens evokes recollections of Keith, the melancholy driver from Brydon's TV breakthrough, a beloved series. En route to Nashville, he calls his sitcom co-star Ruth Jones to boost his confidence. She reminds him his some genuine music credentials: their 2009 Comic Relief cover of a classic duet topped the charts. (“Dolly and Kenny only made it to No 7!” she notes.)

Interview Skills and Cultural Immersion

While the overwhelming experience of a night out in Nashville proves challenging for the host – trying to dance with the UK actor now musician Twinnie sees him giving up during the opening Shania Twain song – the 60-year-old is far less steady during conversations. His respectful lines of questioning seem to gel with southern manners, efficiently extracting anecdotes about legends and general musings about the essence of country music from experienced elders like the institution's mainstay a renowned figure and 92-year-old celebrity clothier a fashion icon. His gentle manner also works with younger guns, like the bearded hitmaker Luke Combs and the bluegrass banjo maestro Tray Wellington.

While some of the stories feel well worn, the opening episode includes at least one genuine curveball. Why exactly is the pop star doing hanging out in a homely recording space? Apparently he has been coming to Tennessee to hone his compositions for decades, and points to Glen Campbell as an influence for his band's enduring hit Back for Good. Here, at last, we meet a guest he can tease, joke with and wind up without worrying of causing any offense. (The good-natured star, is very game.)

Cultural Context and Unscripted Moments

Given a hundred years of country to contextualise and celebrate, it is understandable this regional journey across two states (including visits in Virginia, Alabama and Mississippi to come) wants to focus on the art and without needing to engage with contemporary issues. But it cannot help but seep in some elements. During an appearance on the glossy morning show of the Nashville radio station WSM – proud founder of the Grand Ole Opry – Brydon jokingly wonders if the US and Canada are still friends, disrupting his slick hosts from their rhythm. The audience doesn't see to see chilly response.

A Natural Fit in This Role

But for all his visible insecurity, Brydon is clearly a good fit for this type of breezy, bite-size format: friendly, interested, self-effacing and prepared for costume changes, although he struggles locating an elaborate western top in his size. Should Coogan be concerned that the co-star can do the whole travelogue thing without him? Absolutely.