TV Review: The first 8 episodes of Nashville

Out of the big three networks (CBS, ABC, NBC), the front runner is ABC, at least with regard to picking the best dramas.  They must have someone up top that has brilliant instincts for what will work and what won't.  LOST was the best network television program since The West Wing, and I contend that Once Upon a Time is currently the best show on non-cable television.

An example of ABC's prowess last season was Revenge.  I felt it started out as one of the best, a modern-day Count of Monte Cristo.  However, it eventually ended up in soap opera land.  This caused me to be naturally skeptical of any new shows that even smelled like soap, i.e. Nashville.  Then I learned that it had its own soundtrack of original songs performed by the actual cast.  This intrigued me, and piqued my interest enough to cause me to watch the Pilot episode.  I was happy to find that it stays true to ABC's reputation of brilliant drama.

THE GOOD
The acting is the best acting I've seen in a very long time on television.  Each of the characters are very complex and deep, with the actors portraying them with signature subtlety.  Mark my words, there is not a sore thumb among the main cast.  Each of them give Emmy-worthy performances.  Clare Bowen's character is sweetly vulnerable, and only once did I actually second guess that the actress might not be from the South (she's Australian, if you can believe it).  Connie Briton as the lead is just as resplendent and extremely likable.  Hayden Panettiere's Juliet Barnes was such a shock; I just couldn't believe how amazing she was, although I won't be surprised if she walks away with a golden statue for her performance.

The writing is also top-notch.  The dialogue and storytelling is probably the best on television right now.  It's very subtle, which seems to be the name of the game these days in regards to quality.  Only Once Upon a Time has better Spielbergian emotional payoffs.

The original music is great.  It really helps the mood of the show.  I purchased the soundtrack and listen to it a lot.

THE BAD
The series dipped its toe into soap-opera-land for one or two episodes, but it's now back on track.  I hope that it will stay good.

CONCLUSION
Nashville is the best new series on network television, with Elementary coming in a close second.  I can't say it's necessarily family friendly, but it's a very light PG-13 (it's listed as TV-PG).  4.75/5 stars.