The seventh and eighth major Nine Inch Nails studio-releases, "Ghosts I–IV" and "The Slip", were released in March and May 2008 respectively. Both albums feature contributions from live-band member Alessandro Cortini. Since the release of "Ghosts I–IV", a 25-date tour was announced in several North American cities. Cortini and Freese returned as members from the previous tour, while Robin Finck rejoined the band. The lineup was initially to include Rich Fownes, but before any scheduled performances it was revealed that Justin Meldal-Johnsen would instead be contributing on bass guitar.