Hello Nerd. You say...

Mollycat, I don't know the Duncan McFarlane band. Are they generally worth looking into?

...she's a fan, so one would expect her to say something nice.

Are you in the USA Nerd? This from Dirty Linen, The USA's magazine of folk and world music (#113, August/September '04)

The world can always use more good English folk-rock, and the Duncan McFarlane Band from West Yorkshire is off to a promising start on its inaugural recording, Woodshed Boys.
This is loud, fast music, based on the rhythms of English country dance music and reminiscent of some incarnations of the Albion Band with sharp-edged electric guitar leads, electric fiddle, and gutsy, gritty singing.
The power chords in the traditional nautical tale 'Bring 'Em Down' crash like surf on rocks, and there's a strong rocking arrangement of Nic Jones' version of 'Canadee-i-o', plus potent instrumental sets like the 'Twohey Step' with duelling electric guitar and fiddle as leads.

...so Canadee-I-O gets mentioned in despatches by that independant source.

If you UK based, try this from one of our 'nationals'.....

Review from fRoots, June 04 issue
The Duncan McFarlane Band "Woodshed Boys" (Dunx Music CD016)
Full-throated folk rock with as much attack as the Charge of the Light Brigade. Could have done with a bit less throttle at times, but at least McFarlane and crew are eager and put some determination into proceedings.
Guests include Maggie Boyle (flute) and Alistair's Hulett and Russell (vocals). A loud party animal and totally unashamed.

...even the BBC have noticed something...
BBC Radio Two Folk & Acoustic Website [14/07/04]
TOP SOAP FEATURES DUNCAN McFARLANE BAND
They may be fairly new to the scene, but English folk-rockers The Duncan McFarlane Band are already media stars: tracks from their debut CD Woodshed Boys are currently being featured as background music in ITV's Emmerdale*; tune in on August 3rd for a scene where their tune Jigolo issues loudly from a shed and causes complaint! Though the band is flying the flag for full-on electric folk, front man McFarlane also plays traditional music, writes songs and tunes, and has recently accompanied Margaret Walters of Sydney-based duo Walters & Warner on tour. The band is receiving top reviews in the UK and US for both their CD and live appearances

...generally not doing too bad for a semi-pro band not many folk have heard yet. We just enjoy it man! www.duncanmcfarlane.co.uk
No management, no agent - having to do all our own publicity - hence this episode! Come see us! Or ask any of the festival organisers that've put us on so far - see website, www.duncanmcfarlane.co.uk
All the best - Duncan