1. Forbidden is an American thrash metal band from the San Francisco Bay Area, California. They were formed in 1985 as Forbidden Evil and changed their name to Forbidden in 1987. The band has experienced multiple breakups and reunions, with several line-up changes. Forbidden initially disbanded in 1997, reunited in 2007, went on an indefinite hiatus in 2012, and reformed again in 2023. The current line-up consists of Norman Skinner (vocals), Craig Locicero (guitar), Matt Camacho (bass), and Chris Kontos (drums).
Forbidden is associated with the Bay Area thrash metal scene alongside bands such as Death Angel, Vio-lence, Defiance, Testament, and Exodus, the latter of which featured original Forbidden drummer Paul Bostaph. The band developed a loyal following in the underground music community. Their debut album "Forbidden Evil" (1988) received positive critical attention, while the follow-up "Twisted into Form" (1990) was noted for its technical and progressive elements. The band's early style was technical thrash metal, later incorporating alternative and groove metal elements on their fourth album "Green" (1997).
The band was founded in early 1985 by drummer Jim Pittman and guitarist Robb Flynn, with Craig Locicero (guitar), Russ Anderson (vocals), and John Tegio (bass) completing the original line-up. Flynn named the band after a song by War Cry from the "Metal Massacre 4" compilation. Early line-up changes included the departures of Pittman, Flynn, and Tegio, replaced by Paul Bostaph, Matt Camacho, and Glen Alvelais. In 1987, the band shortened its name to Forbidden.
Forbidden signed with Combat Records in 1988 and released their debut album "Forbidden Evil" in September of that year, which included material written by former guitarist Flynn.
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