Sixpence None the Richer begin a monthlong tour in support of their latest album, Divine Discontent this week. The tour is the band's first in almost five years, the same amount of time it took to release the follow-up to Sixpence None the Richer, its platinum breakthrough.

Divine Discontent was recorded in 2000, but due to a series of label tangles and delays, was not released until last fall. "There were quite a few reasons why it was delayed and none of it had to do with us," singer Leigh Nash told Rolling Stone. "We were thinking that we would keep up our momentum and follow [Sixpence] up with a stellar album, and we're so proud of it, even if it took twenty years to get released."

The record found the band trying new things, enlisting David Campbell and Van Dyke Parks to contribute some strings. "It's really lush," Nash said. "I think the melodies are gorgeous, so across the board, it's a step up from the last record . . . more than just a step. Maybe two and a half steps."

And the album is enjoying a second wind thanks to a cover of Crowded House's "Don't Dream It's Over," echoing the band's previous success with its take on the La's "There She Goes." The song, produced by Rob Cavallo (Green Day) has been featured in trailers for How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and will also be included on the soundtrack to the hit WB show, Smallville. The group's eagerness to finally see the release in stores is echoed by its interest in playing the new material live. "We've been getting restless," Nash said. "We all want to get out there and play for people."

Sixpence None the Richer tour dates:

2/6: Wichita, KS, Central Christian Church
2/8: Kansas City, Beaumont
2/9: Minneapolis, Quest
2/11: Detroit, Clutch Cargo's
2/12: Toronto, Horsehoe
2/14: Cleveland, Odeon
2/15: Chicago, House of Blues
2/16: Nashville, Exit Inn
2/18: Norfolk, VA, Norva
2/19: Alexandria, VA, The Birchmere
2/20: New York, The Bottom Line
2/21: Providence, RI, Lupo's
2/22: TBA
2/23: Boston, Paradise
2/24: Philadelphia, TBA
2/25: TBA
2/26: Charlotte, NC, Tremont
2/27: Blacksburg, VA, Lyric Theatre
2/28: Richmond, VA, Canal Club

ANDREW DANSBY
(February 6, 2003)