"Cars" to Reunite

Eighties New Wavers the Cars are set to reunite and even release a new album early next year. But don't unpack your plaid and AquaNet just yet. Founding member and vocalist Ric Ocasek is sitting out the reunion, and in his place Todd Rundgren will sing and even pen a few tunes. So essentially, only 2/5 of the original band is set to return.

Billboard.com has learned that the New Cars are eyeing a 2006 tour with another legendary new wave rock outfit, but no details have yet been announced. Reaction to the news that Easton and Hawkes were pressing on without Ocasek and Orr has been mixed, but Rundgren defended the decision this week in a post on the Web site TRConnection.com.

Yet another band to join the ranks of the "Spinal Tap Corps." You know, bands with illustrious careers who keep making comebacks with only lukewarm reaction. It ultimately hurts their legacy.

(via Billboard)