The Polyphonic Spree [ tickets ]--a 22-member, self-described "choral symphonic pop band" led by former Tripping Daisy [ tickets ] frontman Tim Delaughter--has unveiled plans for a North American tour that visits 20 cities this fall.

The Dallas-based band is known for performing its anthemic songs clad in flowing white robes. Augmenting vocalist DeLaughter is a guitarist, a bassist, two percussionists, keyboardists, woodwind and strings specialists, brass players and a nine-member chorus.

Corn Mo is booked to open on all of The Polyphonic Spree's fall club dates. The Starlight Mints are also on the bill for club dates through Oct. 7, while The Sleepy Jackson opens from Nov. 12 through Nov. 24.

"Light and Day," a song from The Spree's debut album, "The Beginning Stages of ..." is featured in a new television ad for Volkswagen and Apple's iPod. The album was initially released in June of 2002, and--after the group signed a major-label deal this June--was re-released by Dreamworks Records.

The group's as-yet-untitled sophomore album is tentatively scheduled for release in early 2004.

In other news, The Spree has recorded the title track for "Wig In A Box," an album of songs from and inspired by the musical "Hedwig and the Angry Inch." The compilation, which hits stores on Oct. 21, benefits the Harvey Milk School in New York, and also features contributions from The Breeders and Sleater-Kinney, among others.