The Deftones are headed back to the road in North America in support of “Diamond Eyes,” their latest release from this spring. The alt-rockers will be kicking off a run of dates along with Dillinger Escape Plan, who will open the shows.

The first leg will launch in the middle of April and will include visits to 18 North American cities over a month. According to the Deftone’s website more shows are going to be added.

Last May the Deftones released “Diamond Eyes.” It debuted on Billboard’s 200 album chart in the Top Ten. It is the first album from the band without Chi Cheng, their bassist, who was seriously injured during a car accident in November 2008. Since the accident, Cheng’s condition has been described as “minimally conscious.” Updates on his conditions are posted regularly at oneloveforchi.com. The site is accepting donations for assisting with Cheng’s medical bills.

Earlier last month an update was posted to the site. It said that Chi was holding strong and that they were hoping to transfer him to New York or New Jersey. Also we’re looking into other options that cold be available elsewhere. Chi is focusing and awakening more. All week he’s had family and brothers coming in. He was happy having them there.

Former Quicksand member Sergio Vega was enlisted for “Diamond Eyes” to play bass and will also tour with the band in Cheng’s absence.

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