NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — A few years ago, Dierks Bentley went hard against country music convention by releasing a rockin' bluegrass-roots album. He decided to break the rules again.

This time around, Bentley is releasing a new four-song EP called "Country & Cold Cans" even while his last album continues to chart hit singles.

He says he cut the short album just to have a little fun with his friends. The EP will be a digital-only release available on iTunes initially.

He's supporting it with a quick three-date tour from Aug. 20-22 at the University of South Carolina, the University of Georgia and the University of Mississippi. Tickets go on sale Friday.