CD Releases - Noted

Battlefield Band, Leaving Friday Harbour (Rounder, 1999)
More of the same.

MacDonald, Rod, Into the Blue (Gadfly, 1999)
MacDonald was a stalwart of the thriving Village songwriter scene in the mid-eighties. His live concerts were stellar and, with the exception of White Buffalo, which stuck to that live-performance formula, were far better than the recordings he has given us. This album comes after several years in relative seclusion in Florida where he and his wife take care of his parents. This album has a laid back tone, and the songs are about enjoying the seclusion and quiet after so many years living across the street from the Speakeasy on MacDougal street where 3am is the pedestrian rush hour.

NRBQ, NRBQ, (Rounder, 1999)
NRBQ's eponymous 30 year celebration contains 15 new songs that keep to the old formula of straight ahead R&B. Lots of fun, but no surprises. For sounds, etc, visit their website. -HB