Pop trio Hanson [ tickets ] takes to the road Oct. 18 for more than a month of tour dates to back the release of the new album "The Best of Hanson Live and Electric," due in stores Oct. 11.

According to the group's publicist, tickets for the outing will hit the market Aug. 27, and all ticket-holders will receive a free, limited-edition "Live and Electric Tour '05" CD sampler, which will be distributed at each show.

During the 24-date tour, Hanson brothers Isaac, Taylor and Zac will visit local colleges and talk to students about their experiences in the music business, especially their decision to operate as independent artists. They'll also screen their self-produced documentary, "Strong Enough to Break," at the college stops, and will follow the showings with Q&A sessions with students.

"Our choice to become independent again was about our belief in the relationship between us and our fans," Taylor Hanson said in a statement. "We're passionate about the future of independent music."

A local band will be selected via a contest to open each upcoming Hanson concert. Details are posted at the group's website.

The new "Live and Electric" album, to be issued by the trio's own 3CG Records label, was recorded during a June performance in Melbourne, Australia, and features hits like "MmmBop," "Where's the Love," "If Only," "This Time Around," "I Will Come To You" and "Penny & Me," plus bonus tracks "If Only" and "A Song to Sing." The set also includes Hanson's covers of Radiohead's "Optimistic" and U2's "In a Little While." Meanwhile, a limited-edition CD/DVD version of the album will feature live footage, the previously unreleased track "Being Me," music videos and a photo gallery.