The real Jann Arden is revealed in her TV viewing habits. Since the release of her first album, Time for Mercy, in 1993, the Canadian chanteuse has built a fiercely loyal fan following with her soulful ballads about love, pain and the whole damn thing. The heartfelt tradition continues on her latest DVD/CD release, Spotlight, which includes eight live tracks and the new single I Can't Make You Stay ("Don't need to hear your goodbyes/To know you're already gone.")
Of course, the true fan knows that Arden is anything but serious away from the recording studio; anyone seeking proof is hereby directed to her Twitter page ("Who needs plastic surgery to get bigger boobs? I just eat more.") Hence, it makes complete sense that Arden opts for sheer escapism and humour in her TV routine. Here are three of her current faves.
Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations Anthony is a chef/writer/adventurer/food lover and all-round sexy New Yorker who loves every corner of the planet. He goes places I couldn't ever fathom going. He rides camels and climbs through caves and sings karaoke and eats things that should never go within 10 feet of a human mouth - and he makes it all look really delicious. He's also a wonderful narrator, which makes sense because he's a really great writer. His books are as interesting as his television show.
Chopped I am amazed at what these talented culinary folks come up with week after week. Basically, four chefs get a basket of mystery ingredients put in front of them and they have 30 minutes to whip up something creative and tasty. Who knew goat testicles, black licorice, panko bread crumbs and maple syrup could make such a brilliant appetizer? I doubt you'll get any ideas for dinner, but it's just weird enough to keep me watching until the very end.
Little Britain I love it. Two male British comics spend pretty much the entire half-hour being politically incorrect. The Brits seem to do drag better than any other group of men in the world. There is something about them dressed up as bizarre female characters that always makes me laugh. No ethnic group is exempt; everybody gets slammed and ripped apart. You have to watch it to believe it.