In support of its highly anticipated ninth studio album, “Backspacer,” Pearl Jam will perform a short North American tour opening Sept. 21 and 22 at Seattle’s KeyArena.

Seattle’s hometown heroes haven’t played the Seattle market since 2006, when the band performed at The Gorge.

“Backspacer” goes on sale in the United States Sept. 20 at Target, the band’s exclusive retail partner, as well as Ten Club and independent retailers, as well as online via digital and gaming platforms to be announced later. International release follows on Sept. 21 via Universal/Island Records.

The first single, “The Fixer,” goes to radio stations July 20.

After Seattle, the tour includes shows Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, 6 and 7 at the Gibson Amphitheatre in Los Angeles; Oct. 9 at the Viejas Arena in San Diego and Oct. 28 and 30 at the historic Spectrum in Philadelphia. More dates could be announced later.

Ben Harper and Relentless7 will open all shows except those in Philadelphia.

Tickets for Pearl Jam’s Philadelphia shows will go on sale July 17 at 10 a.m. EST through ComcastTIX.com or by calling 1-800-298-4200. Tickets can also be purchased in Philadelphia at the Wachovia Complex box office and selective Acme Markets at LiveNation.com.

The remaining U.S. dates, including Seattle, will go on sale July 18, but on-sale times and locations will be announced in local markets.

Also, members of Pearl Jam’s Ten Club (as of July 7) can buy tickets July 13 at Pearljam.com.

Pearl Jam is planning a tour of Australia and New Zealand in November. Details will be announced in the next few weeks.

Among other dates previously announced, Pearl Jam will perform at the Austin City Limits Festival Oct. 4.