Forbidden

Forbidden emerged from the Hayward, California scene in the mid-1980s, originally under the moniker Forbidden Evil. They are a pivotal bridge between the foundational thrash of Exodus and the more technical, progressive leanings of the 1990s.

The band served as a talent incubator, notably launching the career of drummer Paul Bostaph (later of Slayer) and featuring Robb Flynn (later of Machine Head) in their early incarnation. Their sound identity is built on the 'tech-thrash' framework: odd time signatures, complex song structures, and a high degree of harmonic sophistication. Critically, they are lauded for 'Twisted Into Form', an album often cited as a masterpiece of the subgenre for its seamless integration of melody and technicality. Despite several hiatuses and line-up shifts, Forbidden maintains a high standing in the metal underground for refusing to simplify their sound during the genre's commercial decline in the mid-90s, eventually evolving to incorporate groove and alternative metal elements on later releases like 'Green'.