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While the continent-crossing reality competition the travel contest might not have been the seasonal hit the BBC were hoping for, it did give presenter Brydon a stylish transformation. The convoluted coach trip aimed to project a jet-setting vibe, so its master of ceremonies got dressed with premium suits: boldly coloured matching ensembles, silky cravats and nautical jackets. All of a sudden, he acquired the sophisticated appearance complementing his classic Roger Moore impression.

Costume Changes with Musical Roots

The newest three-part series, Brydon's Country Music Expedition, also features 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 piloting an imposing Ford Ranger pickup truck on a 2,000-mile circuit of the southern US for a crash course in country music.

His mission involves with marking the centenary of country music – or at least 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 celebrity travelogue approach involving road tripping, chatting with residents and engaging deeply with traditions. This anniversary has coincided with the genre's rise as, he claims, “the most rapidly expanding genre in the UK” – due to global superstars and new country-inspired records from Beyoncé, famous singers and others – provides additional perspective to explore.

Road Trip Experience With Insecurities

It's established he enjoys a road trip and conversations thanks to multiple seasons of The Trip with Steve Coogan. But at first he appears uncertain about his credentials as a presenter. Observing him confide to an in-car lens evokes recollections of a character, the melancholy driver from his early career, a beloved series. En route to Nashville, he calls his sitcom collaborator Jones to boost his confidence. She reminds him that he has authentic country bona fides: their 2009 charity single of Islands in the Stream was a UK No 1. (“Dolly and Kenny reached seventh place!” she points out.)

Conversational Talents With Local Engagement

If the “full sensory overload” of a night out in the city proves challenging for Brydon – trying to dance with the UK actor turned country singer results in him tap out early in a popular tune – the 60-year-old is far less wobbly legged in the interview segments. His respectful interview style seem to gel local etiquette, gathering anecdotes about legends and reflections about the essence of country music from silvery-haired veterans like the Grand Ole Opry fixture a renowned figure and 92-year-old celebrity clothier Manuel Cuevas. His gentle manner also works with younger guns, like the bearded chart-topping singer and the instrumental virtuoso a talented musician.

While some of the anecdotes seem familiar, the first installment includes at least one unexpected moment. Why exactly is Gary Barlow spending time in a homely east Nashville studio? Apparently he has been coming to Tennessee to refine his compositions for decades, and cites Glen Campbell as an influence on Take That's enduring hit a classic song. Finally, is an interviewee he can tease, mock and playfully provoke without fear about creating a diplomatic incident. (Barlow, bless him, participates willingly.)

Cultural Context and Unscripted Moments

With an entire century of the genre to explain and celebrate, it's reasonable that this southern-fried tour across two states (including visits in Virginia, Alabama and Mississippi upcoming) aims to concentrate on music and without needing to address the current political moment. But it cannot help includes a little. During an appearance on the glossy morning show of the Nashville radio station WSM – proud founder of the Grand Ole Opry – the host humorously asks whether the nations maintain good relations, disrupting the polished presenters off their stride. The audience doesn't see to see presumably icy aftermath.

Ideal Presenter in This Role

But for all his visible insecurity, he is obviously a good fit for this type of breezy, bite-size format: amiable, interested, modest and always ready for costume changes, even if he struggles locating a fancy cowboy shirt that comes in a medium. Should Coogan be concerned that the co-star can do the whole travelogue thing without him? Definitely.