Forbidden Unleashes New Era with Lineup Shift and Upcoming Tour

In a seismic shift within the Bay Area thrash metal scene, Forbidden has announced that their powerhouse drummer Chris Kontos will not be joining them on their upcoming tour, making way for the talented Eli Lucas. The band is gearing up for an explosive chapter as they prepare to unleash their self-titled album on October 23 via BLKIIBLK, an opus that promises to resurrect the raw energy and melodic triumphs that defined the genre.

Produced by the legendary Craig Locicero alongside Zach Ohren (Machine Head), this album is more than a mere revival; it’s a complete reinvigoration of a band that has been a cornerstone of thrash since the 1980s. Locicero himself describes the creative process as an odyssey, aiming to remind fans of the visceral thrill that heavy metal delivers. With tracks like “Sycophantasy,” featuring the drumming prowess of Brann Dailor from Mastodon, the band showcases their ability to blend experience with innovation.

Fans can get a taste of this impending sonic onslaught with the official video for “Burning The Lungs Of Earth,” which promises to be a relentless assault on the senses. Forbidden is set to hit the road in support of their new material, sharing the stage with fellow thrash veterans Heathen and Void. The tour will kick off with a series of dates across the U.S., from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, promising fans an unforgettable experience steeped in the essence of thrash metal.

Mark your calendars, metalheads! These dates will be a celebration of everything that makes thrash metal a relentless force, with the full list of cities and venues available on their website. And as if that wasn’t enough, Forbidden is also confirmed to bring their fire to the 70000 Tons Of Metal cruise in 2027, sailing from Miami to the Dominican Republic—a journey that will undoubtedly be as explosive as their music.

Formed in 1985, Forbidden has weathered the storms of time, lineup changes, and the shifting tides of metal. With a legacy that includes classic albums like "Forbidden Evil" and "Twisted Into Form," the band continues to push boundaries and redefine their sound, ensuring that the name Forbidden remains synonymous with thrash metal excellence. Buckle up, because this legendary quintet is just getting started.