Godfathers in the Bay Area metal scene, Forbidden have returned with their first album in 16 years to unleash 12 fierce, uncompromising, and supremely progressive songs which signal an almighty return. Forbidden will be released by BLKIIBLK Records and charts a defiant journey through scything riffs, incredible melodies, 24 karat lead guitars, simply thunderous drums and bass, plus the studio debut of Norman Skinner (Niviane & Imagika) whose soaring vocals elevate the material to unprecedented levels. Conceived by founder and guitarist Craig Locicero alongside his creative brother, drummer Chris Kontos, the foundational energy of bassist Matt Camacho, the versatility and poise of guitarist Jeremy Von Epp, and Skinner’s voracious fresh approach, Forbidden sees the band arriving at their finest hour with their richest-ever line-up.

With Skinner stepping up to take on lyrical duties, Forbidden takes a fierce and uncompromising look into the eyes of our times without taking sides, instead imploring people to recognize the false conflicts created by the current society and how they can conquer and rise above them. Take the blistering roar of “Single Point Failure”, the beautiful orchestral savagery of “Flower of Life”, and the relentless charge of “Burning The Lungs Of Earth.” There’s also the mid-paced brooding power of “Psyclops,” the twisting, winding power force of “Sycophantasy” featuring guest vocals from Mastodon’s Brann Dailor, and a thunderous ode to women “The Burden” featuring guest vocals from Kayla Dixon. In addition, Forbidden pay homage to classic American heavy metal band Savatage in the shape of a malevolent and mesmeric cover of “Sirens”, which embraces Greek mythology. 

Recorded, produced and engineered at Sharkbite Studios in Oakland, California with engineer and co-producer Zack Ohren, Forbidden is the the resounding realization of a band which has finally found inner-peace, and furious cohesion, in expressing its true passionate angst and incredible metal heart.