Dave Mason. A superb solo album had fans anxiously awaiting what ex-Traffic member Dave Mason had in store as a follow-up. Patience is admittedly a virtue but four years is a bit long to wait for any album. The disc was finally released after the resolution of numerous hassles with Mason's record company and although listenable, it was hardly on a per with its predecessor. His third release, which just came out a couple of days ago, seems to resemble the first in compositional quality as well as musicianship. That part is reassuring, at least as far as Mason's choice of material for his current tour is concerned. Although I've never seen Mason in concert, his previous live recordings suggest he will be quite impressive and will be backed up by a group of highly accomplished musicians. Mason will be appearing October 24 at the Orpheum. Tickets are $4.50, 5.50 and 6.50 and are available at the box office, Out-of-Town, and Minuteman-Soundscope.

Bruce Springsteen is becoming a living legend. He has constantly been lauded by critics and fans alike and the ticket prices ($4.50, 5.50, 6.50) indicate his rise to regional super-stardom. As did Dylan (to whom he is often compared in competence as well as appearance), Springsteen began by playing the more intimate spots of the Boston area. Intimacy, unfortunately, must sometimes be sacrificed for exposure, thus being the reason for Springsteen's performance scheduled in the Music Hall. Tickets are available for the October 29 appearance at Minuteman, Mainline, Ticketron, and Soundscope. Also on tap will be Mr. Mac Rebennack, the good Dr. John himself, whose rasping voice and rich piano rhythms have made the gris-gris sound classic to rockophiles everywhere.

Fairport Convention. This week, WHRB's continuing series of concerts features one of England's highest esteemed folk groups, Fairport Convention with Sandy Denny. After a couple of successful solo attempts and work on the orchestrated version of Tommy, Sandy will appear once again with Fairport. That should be enough in itself to get you to see the concert. But for those who need more tangible grounds it's close (Sanders Theater), it's cheap ($4.00). So be there October 28, Monday evening at 8 p.m. Satisfaction guaranteed.

Octoberfest dance and cartoon festival. Adams House Dining Hall JCR, $1, 9 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 26.