By Lee Zimmerman, New Times (Ten Greatest South Florida Folk Singers of All Time--June 4, 2013):
A veteran of the Greenwich Village folk scene, Rod MacDonald’s happily ensconced in Delray and still manages to eke out a pretty good living with frequent touring and an ongoing series of master classes at FAU where he lectures on popular music.
Prior to relocating to these realms in 1995, MacDonald was a constant presence at many of New York’s most prestigious folk clubs, including Gerdes Folk City and the Bottom Line, and his level activity both here and abroad hasn’t faltered since.
Despite frequent overseas tours, he manages to make regular Florida appearances, not only under his own auspices, but also as part of his Dylan tribute band Big Brass Bed and in a traditional group setting with singer Tracy Sands. Their songs are devoted to social and political commentary; his “American Jerusalem” was hailed for its commentary about the contrast between the rich and the poor. It’s little wonder his material has been covered by the likes of Dave Van Ronk, Shawn Colvin, Jonathan Edwards, and the ubiquitous Four Bitchin’ Babes.
By Lee Zimmerman, Goldmine (Indie Spotlight August 2023):
His latest release, Rants and Romance, consists of a series of songs flush with astute observations and commentary on the current stage of politics and populism at a time when courtesy and common sense seem to have gone wholly astray. The material is pointed and prophetic, with melodies that ring, resonate and make emphatic impressions. MacDonalds’ allegiance to folk tradition is clear and compelling throughout, courtesy of the determined delivery shared in such pertinent pieces as “The Pandemic,” “Dangerous Game,” Lady of the Harbor,” “Heal the World” and “Cry Freedom.” MacDonald’s rallying cries not only deserve to be heard, but to be heeded as well.