'Nashville' preview: Tensions rise and boil over as the tour heads to Chicago

On Sunday, Chicago TV Examiner viewed an advanced screener for an upcoming episode of “Nashville” so we can offer a sneak peek as to what viewers can expect from “I’ve Been Down That Road Before.”

[SPOILERS AHEAD]

Rayna (Connie Britton) and Juliette’s (Hayden Panettiere) tour rolls into Chicago as the episode opens with some gorgeous aerial shots of the Windy City. Rayna is still trying to process the fact that Deacon (Charles Esten) has joined Juliette’s band and the younger star is quick to point out that Rayna seems bothered by the whole thing. She denies it, but the second she’s alone with Deacon, Rayna wants an explanation. Deacon reminds her that he’s there for Juliette and it has nothing to do with her, but that doesn’t make any of the awkward tension go away.

Back in Nashville, Teddy (Eric Close) is furious that Deacon is there and Rayna insisting that she had no idea and no control over Juliette’s decisions does not make the situation easier for him. Teddy’s anger does not subside, but there’s not much Rayna can do about it over the phone. Later, Teddy is grabbing a coffee and he runs into Peggy (guest star Kimberly Williams-Paisley). Things are awkward between them too, but they don’t stay that way for long after the two have an honest conversation.

Scarlett (Clare Bowen) is having money issues and struggling to pay the rent by herself. Gunnar (Sam Palladio) is on hand to witness a conversation with her landlord and suggests she get the money that Avery (Jonathan Jackson) owes her. But Scarlett would prefer not to talk to her ex-boyfriend and promises that she will figure it out on her own. As for Avery, he continues to work with Marilyn (guest star Rya Kihlstedt) to make himself a star, but he’s having a hard time letting go of Scarlett. The two have more than one tense encounter in the episode.

What else does the episode have to offer? There are several performances and songs we’re hoping will be released right away on iTunes. Deacon opens Juliette’s eyes a little bit and their talk leads to her making a bold move. But will it pay off? Deacon makes a bold move of his own and more than one character ends up making new living arrangements before the end of the hour.

“Nashville” airs Wednesday, Feb. 6 at 9 p.m. CST on ABC.

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