Metallica frontman exits rehab, recovering well

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Metallica lead singer and guitarist James Hetfield has left the rehabilitation facility where he had been receiving treatment for alcohol abuse since July, a spokeswoman for the hard rock band said Tuesday.

The publicist confirmed a report appearing on the band's official Web site that Hetfield's recovery was going well and he was feeling good about life.

"My rough road has become smoother reading the show of support from the friends I've met through Metallica," Hetfield said in a message to fans posted on the site. "My music and lyrics have always been therapy for me. Without this God-given gift I don't know where I'd be."

Hetfield, 38, checked into an undisclosed rehab facility during the summer to undergo treatment for alcoholism and other unspecified addictions, forcing the band to postpone recording sessions for its latest album.

The spokeswoman said the band has not yet decided when to restart work on the album, and she declined to elaborate on Hetfield's immediate plans.

Formed in 1981 by Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich, Metallica has sold more than 80 million records worldwide and has won six Grammy Awards.