FORBIDDEN, originally known as Forbidden Evil, emerged in 1985 in the Bay Area thrash metal scene. After some initial lineup changes, the band, which consisted of vocalist Russ Anderson, guitarists Craig Locicero and Robb Flynn, bassist Matt Camacho and drummer Jim Pittman, established itself in 1986 when Glen Alvelais joined the band. In 1988 they recorded the acclaimed album "Forbidden Evil" and toured Europe, leaving a lasting mark. Alvelais was replaced by Tim Calvert, who contributed to subsequent albums such as "Twisted Into Form" (1990) and "Distortion" (1994).
Despite lineup changes and disbanding in 1997, FORBIDDEN returned in 2008 with Craig Locicero, Russ Anderson, Matt Camacho, Glen Alvelais and Gene Hoglan. Further changes led to the release of the album "Omega Wave" in 2010 and a US tour with Overkill. In 2011, Anderson was replaced by Norman Skinner, who was involved in touring and festival appearances until 2014, when FORBIDDEN broke up again.
In 2023, FORBIDDEN reformed with a new lineup that included Locicero, Camacho and Steve Smyth from the 'Omega Wave' era. The elite position once held by Anderson was filled by Norman Skinner, known for his impressive vocal performances. Legend Chris Kontos, known for his thrash/punk past, took the drum throne, solidifying FORBIDDEN's rejuvenated lineup.
