Queens of the Stone Age return to North American clubs

Rockers Queens of the Stone Age have unveiled more than a month of club dates to back their forthcoming album, "Lullabies to Paralyze."

The North American tour, which follows a European trek, launches March 15 in Austin, TX, and focuses on major markets. The new album hits stores on March 24; its lead track, "Little Sister," is already getting airplay on rock radio stations.

A sampler of tracks from "Lullabies to Paralyze," QOTSA's third album, is posted at the band's website.

With the departure last year of bassist Nick Oliveri, singer/guitarist Josh Homme is the only remaining original member of the band. Joining Homme in the studio for the new album were multi-instrumentalist Van Leeuwen, drummer Joey Castillo, guitarist Dave Catching and bassist Alain Johannes. The band's lineup for the tour hasn't been announced.

QOTSA built its strong fan base through extensive touring, including slots on the 2000 and 2001 Ozzfest tours. Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters, Nirvana) also helped nudge the group into the spotlight thanks to numerous interviews in which he spoke about his affinity for the band. Grohl also played drums on the QOTSA hit "Songs for the Deaf," and played drums on the band's summer 2003 tour.