The short autumn tour launches with the band’s traditional Halloween run – three nights in the spookiest of spooky cities, New Orleans. They continue through Southern states until mid-November. Included on the itinerary are two-night stands in Huntsville, Ala., and Memphis.

Taking Houser’s place are George McConnell, who managed the guitar duties during the band’s summer tour, and Randall Bramblett.

Widespread Panic’s first film, “The Earth Will Swallow You,” will be released on DVD just prior to the tour. The flick was shot by indie filmmakers Christopher and Geoffrey Hanson (of “Scrapple” fame) who tracked the band during their summer 2000 tour. The movie features Widespread Panic in concert, up-close and personal, as well as jamming with artists like Jorma Kaukonen and Taj Mahal.

The movie debuted this summer in a variety of venues and in many cases, fans were treated to after-show performances from Col. Bruce Hampton and others. Check out wpmovie.com for upcoming screenings.