The band formerly known as Viet Cong has announced its new name: Preoccupations. "We apologize to those who were adversely affected by our former band name," the members wrote in a statement. "This was never anticipated nor our intent." Frontman Matt Flegel spoke with Pitchfork about the process of choosing the new name, as well as the controversy surrounding the old one. Read that interview here. They've also announced a tour. Find the dates below.

The statement from Preoccupations reads:

After finishing our latest record and taking some time off, we are excited to announce that we will be performing and recording as "Preoccupations" going forward. We will be previewing new material from a forthcoming record in a series of festivals and shows in North America and Europe in the coming months. We apologize to those who were adversely affected by our former band name. This was never anticipated nor our intent. We are artists and not politicians, we understand that the name reflected pain to some individuals and we are happy to change it and move on and focus on our music. Thanks to all our friends and fans. See you all soon.

The band originally announced plans to change their name back in September. Last March, a Viet Cong show was canceled due to negative reaction against the "offensive" name.

Preoccupations:

05-28 George, WA - Sasquatch Festival

06-13 Brooklyn, NY - Baby's All Right

06-27 Hilvarenbeek, Netherlands - Best Kept Secret Festival

06-18 Brussels, Belgium - Out Loud, Beurschouwburg

06-22 London, England - Shacklewell Arms

06-23 London, England - Old Blue Last

06-28 Paris, France - Olympic Cafe

06-30 Berlin, Germany - Urban Spree

07-02 Tullamore, Ireland - Castle Palooza

07-09 Ottawa, Ontario - Ottawa Blues Festival

08-27 Los Angeles, CA - FYF Fest

10-08 Toronto, Ontario - Danforth Music Hall