Forbidden set to release new album on October 23rd, 2026
Thrash metal pioneers Forbidden are gearing up to release their new self-titled studio album on October 23rd, 2026, via BLKIIBLK, which will be their first full-length album since 2010. To tantalize fans and give them a taste of what’s to come, Forbidden has unveiled their latest single, “Psyclops,” along with an official video, which can be viewed below.
Guitarist Craig Locicero describes the inspiration behind “Psyclops,” the final song completed for their upcoming album. He explains that it came together swiftly during the last writing sessions with Jeremy Von Epp and himself, forming a hypnotic stomper with a heavy footed beat. The lyrics, penned by Norman, are open to interpretation by listeners but offer a glimpse into a world of forsaken individuals trapped in a maze, their complacent eyes fixed in an enigmatic gaze.
Forbidden’s legacy as part of the Bay Area thrash metal scene has been one of youth, hunger, and ambition, standing alongside bands like Metallica and Machine Head. With a reimagined lineup featuring guitarist Craig Locicero and bassist Matt Camacho, the band has created a masterpiece of thrashy inclinations, emotive musical passages, and progressive sonic ambitions. From the fierce intensity of “Single Point Failure” to the thoughtful depths of the 9-minute epic, “Flower of Life,” Forbidden’s new album promises to transcend their earlier works and showcase a band with renewed vision and purpose.
The album, produced by Locicero, Kontos, and Zach Ohren (Machine Head), represents a rebirth for Forbidden, breathing new life into this iconic Bay Area metal ensemble. Locicero reflects on the creative process of making the album, describing it as an odyssey rather than a mere recording session. Each band member brought their best to the table, resulting in a raw, energetic, and melodically rich collection of songs that embody the essence of heavy metal. With special guest Brann Dailor of Mastodon adding his talents to “Sycophantasy,” “Forbidden” culminates in a powerful display of musical prowess.
The tracklist for the album includes songs like “Burning The Lungs of Earth,” “Divided By Zero,” “Jisei,” and more, each contributing to the overall narrative of Forbidden’s musical evolution. The band is set to embark on a headlining tour supported by Heathen and Void, with dates scheduled across the US from late October to late November 2026.
Formed in 1985 as Forbidden Evil in Fremont, California, the band quickly rose to prominence within the thrash metal scene, releasing a string of acclaimed albums that showcased their technical precision and melodic sensibilities. Despite disbanding in 1997, Forbidden reunited in 2008, releasing the well-received album “Omega Wave” in 2010 before going on hiatus again in 2012. Now, with a revitalized lineup and a renewed sense of purpose, Forbidden is poised to continue their musical journey and redefine their place in the realm of heavy metal.
With Norman Skinner on vocals, Craig Locicero on guitar, Matt Camacho on bass, Chris Kontos on drums, and Jeremy Von Epp on guitar, Forbidden is ready to unleash a new chapter in their storied career. Stay tuned for more updates and information on the band’s upcoming album and tour dates as they continue to push the boundaries of thrash metal and beyond.