SMALL FACES

Following such figures as Michael Douglas and Ginger Spice, Anglo-Egyptian singer Natacha Atlas has been named a U.N. goodwill ambassador. Atlas, whose fourth album, “Ayeshtani,” came out last month, will work with former Irish President Mary Robinson, the U.N.’s commissioner for human rights, on issues of racism ....

Roger McGuinn enlisted Joan Baez, Judy Collins, Pete Seeger, Eliza Carthy and others for duets on “Treasures From the Folk Den,” an album exploring the traditional folk repertoire growing out of the former Byrds leader’s Internet releases of folk material on his McGuinn.com site. The album is due Sept. 4 from Pennsylvania independent label Appleseed Records ....

Spiritualized has completed “Let It Come Down,” its first studio album since 1997’s acclaimed “Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space.” Where the last one featured Dr. John and gospel singers, this one--due Sept. 11--sports a 96-piece orchestra and 20-member choir. A U.S. tour (with a smaller ensemble) is set for October....

Polly Jean Harvey has done a guest spot on Arizona band Giant Sand’s next album, which features songs by leader Howe Gelb’s heroes, such as Neil Young and Nick Cave. It’s due in October from the Thrill Jockey label.