In Brief

Bob Dylan, “MTV Unplugged,” Columbia (***). Three decades after he led a revolution by plugging in, rock’s preeminent elder statesman follows a trend by unplugging for a semi-acoustic live album featuring some of his most familiar hits. The one “new” song, “John Brown,” has long been available on unauthorized recordings. Dylan sings with a clarity and attachment that have eluded him for years.

Albums are rated from one star (poor) to four stars (excellent).