The Black Crowes [ tickets ] have decided to put a new album and world tour on hold until early next year, a decision that works in favor of US fans, who will have more opportunities to see the band this summer.

A number of new summer dates have been unveiled via the group's website, which also notes that the release of the band's long-awaited follow up to 2001's "Lions" will be pushed back into early 2008. The new set's release will now coincide with a world tour, according to the site.

"The band will spend the remainder of 2007 completing the recording of their new album, performing a number a new songs at assorted Black Crowes dates this year as well as work independently on outside projects," the group announced through its site.

The Black Crowes [ tickets ] are currently set to play a few shows in both June and July before kicking off a full-blown tour Aug. 3 in Bethlehem, PA. The 19-city excursion is set to end up in early September. Full details are included below.

The Crowes completed a major tour last fall, weathering the departure of two long-time members. Keyboardist Eddie Hawrysch, who had been a member since 1992, was "released from the band due to personal issues," according to a press release issued last August. Mere days later, guitarist Marc Ford--also a Black Crowe since 1992--quit the band via a fax, according to the group's website. The two departed members were replaced by guitarist Paul Stacey and keyboardist Rob Clores.

A dual CD/DVD entitled "Brothers of a Feather," featuring video shot during founding Crowes members Chris and Rich Robinson's series of acoustic performances last fall, will be released later this year.