U2 taps Dashboard Confessional, Keane to open fall dates

(LiveDaily.com) -- The first batch dates on the fall leg of U2's 2005 tour will feature alt-rockers Dashboard Confessional in the opening slot, with Brit-pop act Keane taking over in some cities that follow.

Dashboard Confessional supports on U2's September shows in Toronto, Chicago, Minneapolis and Milwaukee, according to Interscope Records. Keane supports during U2's October stints in New York City and Boston.

The brainchild of lead singer/songwriter Chris Carrabba, Dashboard Confessional broke through to the mainstream with the 2003 album "A Mark, A Mission, A Brand, A Scar." The group is working with producer Daniel Lanois (U2, Peter Gabriel) on its forthcoming collection, which is expected to hit stores in early 2006.

Keane continues to tour behind its 2004 debut, "Hopes and Fears," and is expected to issue a follow-up in 2006.

U2 completed a sold-out, 28-date spring run through 13 North American cities in May. The group returns to North America for an additional 50 performances this fall.

"How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb," U2's 11th studio album, hit stores last November, and debuted at No. 1 on The Billboard 200 album chart.