Metallica [ tickets ] frontman James Hetfield has entered rehab for treatment of "alcoholism and other addictions," the band announced in a Thursday (7/19) posting on its official website.

Addressed to "Our Friends," the note from the band said planned recording sessions toward a new album and a previously scheduled July 29th launch party for its new website have been scratched for the time being.

Once jokingly known as Alcoholica, in reference to the band’s enthusiastic and regular enjoyment of adult beverages, Metallica has weathered a difficult time over the last year. A well-publicized and unpopular lawsuit against file-sharing service Napster was settled last week, and the group has yet to replace departed bassist Jason Newsted, who left in January due to what he termed "private and personal reasons, and the physical damage that I have done to myself over the years while playing the music that I love."

The post to the website closes with a plea for privacy, while Hetfield is in recovery.

"We have always thought of you all as a family, and wanted to let you know before this information gets out through other sources. James is working hard toward recovery, and needless to say he has our full support. We trust that you will appreciate the sensitive nature of this matter, and respect our wishes to give James the time and privacy he needs to deal with his problems. Until then, thank you in advance for keeping James in your thoughts and prayers, and we look forward to continuing to share music with you in the future."