Crowes manager Pete Angelus put it bluntly: “If we can work out the details, the tour will mark the pairing of America’s and England’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll bands. God help us all.”

Oasis’ rep, Marcus Russell, was only somewhat less effusive, saying, “The idea of these two great bands touring together has excited everyone we speak to. It’s the ideal combination for those who take their rock charged with passion, soul and energy.”

The two men have their work cut out for them, and a lot can happen between now and then. Both bands contain a pair of brothers who are known for flashes of temper. And in Oasis’ case, no North American tour has ended with the lineup intact thanks to a blistering sibling rivalry.

While Oasis may be huge in the U.K., they haven’t exactly set the U.S. on fire. The Crowes maintain a healthy live following with their brand of Southern roots-rock, but it’s been awhile since they’ve had a blockbuster hit.

Still, the odd pairing and lack of recent U.S. hits may be the least of the obstacles in the way of an Oasis-Crowes trek.

The group once branded “the biggest rock band in the world” by the British press has had more than its share of problems stemming from either Liam Gallagher’s boozing or brother Noel’s jealousy, depending on which brother or tabloid you believe.

A summer European excursion was threatened mid-tour when Noel suddenly jumped ship, swearing never to play outside of the United Kingdom again. Oasis continued its round of summer festivals – which was marred by bottle-chucking fans and constant bickering in the tabloid press between the brothers.

To top off a wild summer, both Liam and Noel ended up in divorce courts as well.

The Black Crowes’ Robinson brothers – Chris and Rich – have been on good behavior lately, though they’ve demonstrated their share of sibling difficulties as well (though nothing on the level of the Gallagher’s).

Like Oasis, the Crowes were also involved in an ill-fated tour last summer – through no fault of their own. The third leg of a successful outing with guitarist Jimmy Page – including four sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden with The Who – had to be canceled when Page injured his back.