Blues virtuoso Jonny Lang [ tickets ], who hasn't released a new album in four years, plans to spend some time on the road this spring and summer.

Lang's itinerary currently comprises a modest number of dates that stretch into early August.

In a late-February letter posted at his website, Lang said that the follow up to his 1998 sophomore effort, "Wander This World," is in the can, but didn't say when it would land in stores.

"The truth is that no one knows the exact date of its release, but if you will allow me to be vague I can say it won't be long," Lang wrote. "What I do know is that I have finished recording an album that I couldn't be happier with."

Whenever it does surface, fans will be treated to what Lang said is an album that more deeply bears his direct influence than previous works.

"On albums past, my involvement musically was singing, playing guitar, and writing here and there," he said, "but on this one I have been able to co-produce and write every song as well. At first I didn't know if I was ready to take that step, but I'm glad I did because for the first time I feel like this is the 'real me.'"

Lang co-produced the as-yet-untitled set with Marti Fredrickson, who also played drums and bass on the recording.

In 1997, Lang rocketed into the spotlight with his major-label debut, "Lie to Me." Many critics heaped praise on the then-teenage singer-guitarist, much of which focused on his unexpectedly mature-sounding vocal delivery.