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While the Euro-hopping reality competition Destination X might not have been the seasonal hit the broadcaster had anticipated, it did give host Rob Brydon a stylish transformation. The complex bus journey clearly wanted to give off a jet-setting vibe, so its master of ceremonies was outfitted with premium suits: vibrant three-piece suits, smooth neckwear and yacht-ready blazers. All of a sudden, Brydon had the sophisticated appearance complementing his classic Roger Moore impression.

Costume Changes with Musical Roots

His latest trilogy of episodes, Brydon's Country Music Expedition, also features some Mr Benn-style costume changes. The affable comedian goes full Yellowstone cowpoke sporting of flannel shirts, sturdy coats and the occasional cowboy hat. It's all part the concept where he piloting an imposing Ford Ranger pickup truck across thousands of miles through southern states to learn quickly about the musical genre.

His mission involves with marking the hundredth anniversary 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 road tripping, gabbing to locals and immersing himself in the culture. This anniversary aligns with country becoming, he claims, “the fastest-growing genre in the UK” – due to Taylor Swift and new country-inspired records from Beyoncé, famous singers and various performers – offers another angle to explore.

Travel History and Personal Doubts

We know he enjoys a road trip and a chinwag thanks to multiple seasons of The Trip alongside his comedy partner. But at first he appears uncertain if he is truly qualified as a presenter. Observing him confide to an in-car lens certainly brings back beta male memories of Keith, the melancholy driver from Brydon's TV breakthrough, a beloved series. En route to Nashville, he calls his Gavin & Stacey co-star Ruth Jones to boost his confidence. She recalls his some genuine music credentials: a past charity single of Islands in the Stream topped the charts. (“Dolly and Kenny only made it to No 7!” she points out.)

Interview Skills and Cultural Immersion

If the “full sensory overload” of a night out in Nashville proves challenging for Brydon – trying to dance alongside a performer now musician results in him giving up during the opening a popular tune – the veteran comedian is much more steady in the interview segments. His respectful lines of questioning blends well with southern manners, gathering anecdotes about legends and general musings about the essence of the genre from silvery-haired veterans like the Grand Ole Opry fixture Bill Anderson and 92-year-old celebrity clothier a fashion icon. His calm approach is effective with newer artists, like the scraggly-bearded hitmaker Luke Combs and the instrumental virtuoso a talented musician.

While some of the stories seem familiar, the opening episode includes a single genuine curveball. What on earth is the pop star spending time in a cozy east Nashville studio? Reportedly, he's been coming to Tennessee to hone his compositions since the 1990s, and points to Glen Campbell as inspiration on Take That's enduring hit a classic song. Here, at last, we meet a guest Brydon can needle, joke with and wind up without worrying of causing any offense. (The good-natured star, participates willingly.)

Broader Implications With Spontaneous Interactions

Given a hundred years of country to explain and celebrate, it is understandable that this southern-fried tour through Tennessee and Kentucky (with pit stops to other areas upcoming) aims to concentrate on music and without needing to engage with contemporary issues. But it cannot help but seep in some elements. While guesting 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, which throws the polished presenters from their rhythm. We do not get to see presumably icy aftermath.

Ideal Presenter in This Role

But for all his apparent self-doubt, he is obviously a good fit for this sort of lighthearted series: friendly, engaged, modest and always ready for costume changes, although he struggles locating an elaborate western top that comes in a medium. Should Coogan be concerned that his wingman is capable of solo hosting alone? Definitely.