Blink 182 cancel tour due to delays in recording new album

The world's biggest pop-punk band Blink 182 have canned their entire 2011 European Summer tour due to delays in recording their upcoming sixth album.

The dates have been rescheduled for mid-2012, while the band continue to work on the album.

The boys released the following statement on their official website:

"FROM MARK, TOM AND TRAVIS: It is with heavy hearts that we have to announce our planned 2011 European Summer tour has been rescheduled. When we booked the tour last year, we were confident that we would have the new album out before the Summer. Turns out we were mistaken as the album is taking longer than we thought and won't be out till later this year. We hoped we would have some new songs to play rather than do another 'greatest hits tour' which you all saw last Summer. As much as we know our fans would be cool with that, we feel that we owe you guys something new when you spend your money to come see us. Frankly, it's what needs tocontinue for us to remain vital. Thethree of us are working very hard to do what we set out to do when were-formed... get a new Blink-182 album recorded. Apologies to all of our fans who have bought tickets and were looking forward to the Summer shows but we'll be back soon with the rescheduled dates in Summer 2012, have a new album out and be able to play new songs for you all. Thanks for all of the continued support and understanding."

Bassist Mark Hoppus made the following statement on his Facebook page in response to fan's comments about the announcement:

"Hi. Mark here. I have been reading all of your comments, both here and on my twitter, and to those of you who're frustrated, angry, let down, and incredulous, I feel you. I feel the same way. I've had a while to process everything and I'm still bummed. This was not an easy decision for us at all. One of the hardest things we've had to do. Ever. It sucks. The point is we didn't want to rush and put out an inferior record. We also didn't want to become a band who relies on their past success and just plays the same songs every tour, even though we'll always play the older stuff as well. Blink-182 NEEDS to make new music. For you, and for us. I did a long interview with Kerrang! about the postponement of the tour, and hopefully that helps explain everything a little better. I think it comes out on Wednesday. To those who've tried to be supportive and understanding, I thank you. For real. This needs to be the best album we've ever recorded, and we're working hard towards that goal. Blink-182 for life."

www.blink182.com