Alabama [ tickets ] has begun to lay out the dates for its "American Farewell Tour," which will support the hits collection "In the Mood: Love Songs."

The group's final outing is expected to run from June through November, and will feature a "dazzling new set and state-of-the-art production," according to RCA Records.

Set for release on Feb. 4, "In the Mood: Love Songs" contains 21 of the group's previously released ballads, as well as two newly recorded tracks, titled "I'm in the Mood" and "The Living Years," according to RCA.

The enhanced CD has a "passport" feature that will enable fans to purchase tickets to the band's farewell tour prior to the March 15 public on-sale date, according to the group's official website. CD owners without computer access will be able to buy advance tickets using passwords contained in the CD package.

The group is selling special "VIP packages" for the upcoming tour. Dubbed "Platinum Bama," the top-tier package sells for $1,000 and includes front-row seats, a photo with the band and a limited edition, numbered and autographed Gibson electric guitar emblazoned with the tour's logo.

The band is also giving regular ticket-holders a gift; all fans who attend a farewell-tour concert will receive a free, full-color, 72-page tour book.

Prior to kicking off its farewell outing, Alabama will give a March 16 performance at Rodeo Houston 2003 in Houston.

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