Rob Brydon's Country Music Journey Review: Proof He Doesn't Need a Fun Travelogue

Although the continent-crossing competitive reality show the travel contest wasn't quite the summer smash the BBC 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 in deluxe tailoring: boldly coloured matching ensembles, smooth neckwear and nautical jackets. Unexpectedly, he acquired the debonair look complementing his classic 007 impersonation.

A Thematic Wardrobe and Country Music

His latest three-part series, Brydon's Country Music Expedition, includes some Mr Benn-style thematic wardrobe. The genial Welshman goes full western rancher sporting 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.

His mission involves with marking the centenary of country music – or at least the century mark of the legendary broadcast that evolved into the Grand Ole Opry, foundation and star-maker in the industry for generations – through the classic star-led journey tradition of road tripping, gabbing to locals and engaging deeply with traditions. That the centenary aligns with the genre's rise as, he claims, “the fastest-growing music style in Britain” – thanks to global superstars and recent countrified albums from multiple artists, famous singers and others – provides additional perspective for examination.

Travel History and Personal Doubts

It's established he enjoys long drives and a chinwag thanks to the various incarnations of The Trip alongside his comedy partner. But at first he seems unsure if he is truly qualified as a presenter. Observing him speak with an in-car lens certainly brings back recollections of Keith, the melancholy driver from Brydon's TV breakthrough, Marion & Geoff. Traveling toward Nashville, he phones his Gavin & Stacey co-star Ruth Jones for a pep talk. She recalls his some genuine country bona fides: their 2009 Comic Relief cover of a classic duet was a UK No 1. (“The original artists reached seventh place!” she points out.)

Interview Skills With Local Engagement

While the overwhelming experience during an evening in Nashville is a little too much for the host – a line-dancing attempt alongside a performer turned country singer Twinnie sees him tap out during the opening a popular tune – the veteran comedian is much more wobbly legged in the interview segments. His polite interview style seem to gel with southern manners, gathering Johnny Cash stories and reflections about the essence of country music from silvery-haired veterans like the Grand Ole Opry fixture Bill Anderson and nonagenarian celebrity clothier a fashion icon. His calm approach also works with younger guns, like the bearded hitmaker Luke Combs and the bluegrass banjo maestro a talented musician.

Although several the stories seem familiar, the first installment includes at least one unexpected moment. What on earth is Gary Barlow spending time in a homely east Nashville studio? Reportedly, he's been coming the state to refine his songwriting for decades, and cites a country icon as an influence on Take That's enduring hit a classic song. Finally, we meet a guest Brydon can needle, mock and playfully provoke without fear about creating a diplomatic incident. (The good-natured star, is very game.)

Broader Implications With Spontaneous Interactions

With an entire century of country to explain and celebrate, it's reasonable that this southern-fried tour through Tennessee and Kentucky (with pit stops in Virginia, Alabama and Mississippi upcoming) aims to concentrate on the art and not necessarily engage with the current political moment. Yet it inevitably includes a little. 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. We do not get the likely chilly response.

A Natural Fit in This Role

Despite his visible insecurity, he is obviously a good fit for this type of breezy, bite-size format: amiable, interested, self-effacing and always ready for costume changes, although he struggles locating a fancy cowboy shirt in his size. Might his partner worry that the co-star is capable of the whole travelogue thing without him? Absolutely.