DEF LEPPARD has postponed four Canadian shows due to an upper respiratory tract infection affecting the band's lead singer, Joe Elliott. The group's tour, which was arranged in support of DEF LEPPARD's forthcoming album release, kicked off earlier this month with the Canadian leg scheduled to commence last night (April 11) in Quebec City.

Elliott has been suffering with an upper respiratory tract infection for the past two days and has been advised by doctors that he needs to rest.

"I am disappointed that we can't perform the shows in Canada," said Elliott. "The band and I really look forward to coming back to play soon."

The affected dates are as follows:

April 11 - Quebec City, QC (Colisee Pepsi Arena)
April 12 - Ottawa, ON (Scotiabank Place)
April 13 - Hamilton, ON (Copps Arena)
April 16 - Winnipeg, MB (MTS Centre)

DEF LEPPARD hopes to resume its North American tour on April 18 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

DEF LEPPARD's new studio album, "Songs from the Sparkle Lounge", is scheduled for release on April 29 via Bludgeon Riffola/Island/UMe.

The 11-track "Songs From The Sparkle Lounge" is DEF LEPPARD's first album of brand new material since 2002's "X" and begins yet another remarkable new chapter in the band's 30-year recording career. Recorded last year during month-long stints at lead singer Joe Elliott's Dublin studio, the album's title refers to a backstage area called The Sparkle Lounge on DEF LEPPARD's 2006 tour where the band would go to write songs.