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 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.