Former Animals frontman Eric Burdon will undergo back surgery later this week, and has subsequently cancelled more 2012 tour dates. The news comes months after Burdon was forced to cancel his Summer European Tour, resulting from a three-year battle with back pain. However, according to the release, the procedure is expected to allow Burdon to return to the road after a three to six month recuperation period.

In addition to the postponement of Burdon’s live performances, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has also postponed the release of his new record ‘Til Your River Runs Dry until the first quarter of next year. Burdon’s new EP with the Greenhornes is now due out on November 30, 2012.