Carry On, Chris Brown... Carry On

At first progress-report hearing, judge says the singer is doing everything right since being sentenced for Rihanna attack in August

Chris Brown is on the up and up.

At the singer's first checkup hearing since being sentenced for attacking Rihanna in February, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Patricia Schnegg said she had received "an extremely favorable progress report" on him from the probation department.

Brown, who arrived early for his afternoon appearance today, was sentenced in August to 180 days of community labor, which he's been serving in his home state of Virginia, five years' probation and a one-year anti-domestic violence program.

So far, he's keeping up with the court's expectations. Schnegg said Brown has provided the court with DNA samples, paid all fines and court fees, performed more than 100 hours of community service and completed seven domestic violence classes to date.

The thumb's-up from the judge came at a great time for Brown, who's been busy shooting music videos and working on his new album at a pace that has rivaled only...well, Rihanna.

Plus, he just kicked off his "Fan Appreciation" tour to thank the loyal "Run It" lovers out there for sticking by him through this turbulent year.

He has carte blanche to travel within the U.S. but would need to get the judge's permission if her wants to leave the country.