What could be more King Of The Hill than bluegrass music? And what could be more bluegrass than King Of The Hill?
The episode is three stories, one of Connie's inner struggle with the love of her instrument and the music she's grown to love, another, the inner struggle of Hank's ambition and his values, and third, Bobby's inner struggle to be himself while living up to Hank's expectations.
I am a lifetime King Of The Hill fan and lifetime bluegrass musician, and I am particularly fond of this episode because it is relatable to those who know the music and the show, but also a great introduction to strangers of the show and the music form. It makes me wonder if Mike Judge is a bluegrass fan, because he obviously knows the music and the culture to a degree. The episode is ripe with references only people educated in bluegrass will know, as well as jokes. It contains enough stereotypes to keep mainstream viewers attention. It delivers the perfect dose of humor and family sitcom energy, as well as writing that confirms the identity in each character. And get ready for a surprise from Boomhauer!
9/10, only off by 1 point due to Bill's washboard and Dale's keyboard, which should have been an upright bass. I'd lose bluegrass points if I ignored that. ;)
The episode is three stories, one of Connie's inner struggle with the love of her instrument and the music she's grown to love, another, the inner struggle of Hank's ambition and his values, and third, Bobby's inner struggle to be himself while living up to Hank's expectations.
I am a lifetime King Of The Hill fan and lifetime bluegrass musician, and I am particularly fond of this episode because it is relatable to those who know the music and the show, but also a great introduction to strangers of the show and the music form. It makes me wonder if Mike Judge is a bluegrass fan, because he obviously knows the music and the culture to a degree. The episode is ripe with references only people educated in bluegrass will know, as well as jokes. It contains enough stereotypes to keep mainstream viewers attention. It delivers the perfect dose of humor and family sitcom energy, as well as writing that confirms the identity in each character. And get ready for a surprise from Boomhauer!
9/10, only off by 1 point due to Bill's washboard and Dale's keyboard, which should have been an upright bass. I'd lose bluegrass points if I ignored that. ;)
