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Although the continent-crossing reality competition the travel contest might not have been the summer smash the BBC had anticipated, it did give presenter Brydon a stylish transformation. The convoluted coach trip clearly wanted to project a globetrotting atmosphere, so its master of ceremonies was outfitted in deluxe tailoring: boldly coloured three-piece suits, smooth neckwear and yacht-ready blazers. Unexpectedly, Brydon had the debonair look complementing his vintage Roger Moore impression.

Costume Changes with Musical Roots

The newest trilogy of episodes, Brydon's Country Music Expedition, includes some Mr Benn-style thematic wardrobe. The affable comedian transforms into western rancher in a parade plaid tops, 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 of the southern US for a crash course in country music.

His mission involves with marking the centenary of country music – specifically the 100th anniversary of the legendary broadcast which became the Grand Ole Opry, cornerstone and kingmaker in the industry for generations – through the classic celebrity travelogue tradition of driving around, gabbing to locals and engaging deeply in the culture. That the centenary aligns with country becoming, according to him, “the most rapidly expanding genre in the UK” – thanks to global superstars and new country-inspired records from multiple artists, famous singers and various performers – provides additional perspective for examination.

Travel History With Insecurities

We know he enjoys long drives and a chinwag because of multiple seasons of The Trip alongside his comedy partner. But at first he appears uncertain about his credentials to be our guide. Watching him confide to a dashboard-mounted camera evokes beta male memories of Keith, the melancholy driver from Brydon's TV breakthrough, Marion & Geoff. Traveling toward Music City, he phones his sitcom collaborator Jones to boost his confidence. She recalls that he has some genuine music credentials: their 2009 charity single of a classic duet topped the charts. (“Dolly and Kenny only made it to seventh place!” she points out.)

Conversational Talents With Local Engagement

While the overwhelming experience during an evening in the city is a little too much for the host – a line-dancing attempt alongside a performer turned country singer results in him giving up during the opening a popular tune – the 60-year-old is much more wobbly legged during conversations. His polite interview style blends well local etiquette, gathering anecdotes about legends and reflections about the essence of the genre from experienced elders like the institution's mainstay Bill Anderson and 92-year-old celebrity clothier Manuel Cuevas. His gentle manner also works with newer artists, like the scraggly-bearded hitmaker Luke Combs and the instrumental virtuoso Tray Wellington.

Although several the stories feel well worn, the first installment includes a single unexpected moment. Why exactly is Gary Barlow spending time in a cozy recording space? Reportedly, he's visited the state to hone his compositions for decades, and points to Glen Campbell as inspiration on Take That's bulletproof ballad Back for Good. Finally, is an interviewee Brydon can needle, joke with and wind up without fear about creating a diplomatic incident. (Barlow, bless him, participates willingly.)

Broader Implications and Unscripted Moments

With an entire century of country to explain and celebrate, it's reasonable this regional journey through Tennessee and Kentucky (including visits in Virginia, Alabama and Mississippi to come) aims to concentrate on music and without needing to engage with contemporary issues. But it cannot help includes some elements. While guesting on the glossy morning show on the local broadcaster WSM – proud founder of the famous show – Brydon jokingly wonders if the US and Canada are still friends, which throws the polished presenters off their stride. The audience doesn't see to see presumably icy aftermath.

A Natural Fit in This Role

But for all his visible insecurity, he is obviously well-suited for this sort of lighthearted series: amiable, interested, modest and always ready to dress the part, even if 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? Definitely.