FORBIDDEN, the legendary Bay Area thrash metal pioneers, are back with a bang! Their highly anticipated self-titled album, "Forbidden", is set to drop on October 23rd via BLKIIBLK, the heavy metal imprint of Frontiers Label Group. This album marks a significant return for the band, who have been making waves in the metal scene since the 1980s. With a new lineup and a fresh sound, FORBIDDEN is ready to take the metal world by storm once again. Personally, I think this album is a testament to the band's enduring legacy and their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. What makes this particularly fascinating is the band's journey from their early days as FORBIDDEN EVIL to becoming one of the most influential thrash metal acts of all time. From Metallica to Machine Head, FORBIDDEN has been at the forefront of the Bay Area thrash metal movement, and their new album is a celebration of that legacy. In my opinion, the album's title is a bold statement, and it sets the tone for what's to come. The new single, "Psyclops", is a hypnotizing stomper that showcases the band's signature blend of heavy riffs and melodic songwriting. The song's lyrics, penned by Norman Skinner, are open to interpretation, leaving listeners to ponder the meaning behind the vivid imagery. One thing that immediately stands out is the band's ability to capture the raw energy and imperfections that make heavy metal so captivating. The album was tracked at Sharkbite Studios in Oakland, California, with engineer/co-producer Zack Ohren, ensuring a top-notch production that highlights the band's talent. The track listing for "Forbidden" is a testament to the band's versatility and ambition. From the intense opening track, "Single Point Failure", to the nine-minute closer, "Flower Of Life (Chaos By Design)", each song takes listeners on a journey through the band's musical landscape. The album isn't just a revival; it's a full-blown reinvigoration and a purgative endpoint for this Bay Area metal institution. Looking ahead, FORBIDDEN is set to hit the road in support of their new album with a run of headlining tour dates. The band will be joined by HEATHEN and VOID, ensuring an epic metal experience for fans. With a lineup featuring founding guitarist Craig Locicero, longtime members Matt Camacho and Steve Smyth, alongside vocalist Norman Skinner and drummer Chris Kontos, FORBIDDEN is ready to deliver an unforgettable live show. What many people don't realize is that the band's journey has been filled with lineup changes and hiatuses, but their determination to create new music has never wavered. The band's return in 2023 with a revitalized lineup marked a new creative era, and the release of "Divided By Zero" in 2025 further solidified their commitment to pushing boundaries. The album's production and the band's live performances are a testament to their dedication to the craft. If you take a step back and think about it, FORBIDDEN's new album is more than just a collection of songs; it's a celebration of the band's enduring legacy and their impact on the metal scene. The album's release and tour dates are a reminder that the band is still going strong and ready to deliver an epic metal experience for fans old and new. This raises a deeper question: How will FORBIDDEN's new album and tour dates impact the metal scene, and what does the future hold for this iconic band? A detail that I find especially interesting is the band's ability to blend their classic thrash metal sound with modern influences, creating a unique and captivating listening experience. The album's production and the band's live performances are a testament to their dedication to the craft, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for this legendary band. In conclusion, FORBIDDEN's new album and tour dates are a must-listen and a must-see for metal fans everywhere. The band's enduring legacy and their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots make them a true icon in the metal scene. So, get ready to headbang and enjoy the ride as FORBIDDEN takes you on a musical journey through their world of thrash metal!
