Gauntlet News

FORBIDDEN Faces Touring Turmoil: Matt Camacho and Chris Kontos Sit Out Fall Tour

By Jason •
The legends of Bay Area thrash forge ahead with new blood as original members step back for personal reasons.

The Bay Area thrash titans FORBIDDEN are gearing up for a fall tour with HEATHEN and VOID, but the absence of bassist Matt Camacho and drummer Chris Kontos looms large over the proceedings. The band announced that both members will be sitting out the tour due to personal reasons, leaving fans speculating about the future of the iconic lineup.

In a heartfelt social media statement released on September 18, FORBIDDEN reassured fans that while Matt and Chris are stepping aside for now, they are committed to returning in 2027. "Please respect their privacy as we do and support their decision," the post read, hinting at the personal struggles that have led to this unexpected change. The tour kicks off on October 23 in Las Vegas, and the band is determined to deliver a set that spans their storied history.

Stepping in to fill the void are two rising stars of the Bay Area metal scene: drummer Eli Lucas and bassist Avery Thurman. Eli, who narrowly missed out on a spot with FORBIDDEN in 2011, has since made a name for himself, while Avery, representing the legendary BLIND ILLUSION, is a young prodigy known for his electrifying stage presence. The band's excitement for their new recruits is palpable, described as having "no shortage of energy and musical prowess."

As FORBIDDEN prepares their setlist, which is rumored to include 18 songs, both Matt and Chris expressed their disappointment at missing their first tour since 1987. In separate statements, they emphasized their love for the fans and gratitude for the support, urging followers to rally behind Eli and Avery as they take on the challenge of carrying FORBIDDEN's legacy forward.

The tour marks a significant milestone, coinciding with the release of their self-titled album, the first in 16 years, set to drop on the same day as the tour launch. Having recorded at Sharkbite Studios under the watchful eye of engineer Zack Ohren, the album is poised to reignite the fire that made FORBIDDEN a cornerstone of thrash metal. With a legacy that stretches back to the mid-80s, fans are eagerly awaiting what this new chapter has in store.

As the chaos unfolds, FORBIDDEN remains a testament to resilience and the unyielding spirit of heavy metal. Buckle up, thrash fans — the ride is about to get wild!