Backstreet Boys still aiming for Aug. 7 return

(Launch) - The Backstreet Boys have restated their intention to return to the road Aug. 7, following AJ McLean's completion of a 30-day stint in rehab for anxiety, depression and alcohol abuse. The group issued the statement in response to speculation in a nationally syndicated gossip column that the tour had been completely scrapped, and the group's crew was advised to seek work elsewhere. "Despite rumors to the contrary, Backstreet Boys' Black and Blue World Tour 2001 has not been canceled, nor has the crew been told to find other work," the statement reads. "Backstreet Boys' touring personnel have been instructed to be on hand when the tour resumes Tuesday, Aug. 7 in Vancouver, British Columbia". Backstreet Boys rescheduled several dates to allow McLean to undergo rehab treatment. The group said in a statement that the time off will also give member Nick Carter time to recover from a broken hand he suffered July 7 in Boston.