Deftones' bassist Chi Cheng has been released from intensive care and reports suggest he is making the first steps towards recovery.

Chi went into a coma following a car crash in Santa Clara, California last November. His condition improved dramatically over the weekend and his family were able to make an announcement yesterday.

This news comes from a post on the One Love For Chi website, which reads:

"Hi all - just wanted to update everyone and let you know that Chi was released from ICU over the weekend and is no longer on any sort of life support.

His symptoms continue to improve. So keep the prayers coming... they are obviously helping a great deal!

Thanks everyone for your support and well wishes... It means so much to the Cheng family."

Last month, Deftones played their first concert without Cheng and are scheduled to take play August 27th at the Forum ahead of their Reading/Leeds festival appearance. Ex-Quicksand bassist Sergio Vega was his stand-in and at this time we would presume he'll continue to play until Chi is back to full health. DiS wishes him a speedy recovery and our thoughts are with his family at this time.