Welcome to a brand-new chapter in Forbidden’s history. Everything about this album, and this incarnation of the band, feels new, but also refreshingly familiar. This is a crushingly heavy record, expertly written and executed, that captures the essence of Forbidden while pushing the band into new territory. The album introduces vocalist Norman Skinner, who steps in to replace Russ Anderson. It’s a significant change, one that brings an entirely new dynamic to the band. Yet, Forbidden makes it work. The record still carries the band’s unmistakable identity, but comparing it directly to what came before would be unfair. This is a different chapter, and it deserves to be judged on its own merits.
Skinner’s vocal approach differs from Anderson’s, although the two share some common ground in their delivery. The distinction lies largely in their respective levels of intensity and the way they approach the material. That said, Skinner delivers an outstanding performance, making excellent use of his range while allowing the songs to breathe and develop naturally. He fits the material remarkably well, which is no small achievement when you consider the legacy of the vocalist he is replacing. Taking over a role so closely associated with Anderson is no easy task, but Skinner rises to the challenge and establishes his own identity within the band.
Musically, the album reveals a band that has continued to evolve. Craig Locicero, Chris Kontos, Matt Camacho, and Jeremy Von Erp approach the songwriting with the confidence and precision that come from years of experience. Every track feels carefully constructed, with plenty of twists, turns, and ideas drawn from the musicians’ collective influences. These are no longer young musicians throwing riffs against the wall to see what sticks. The core of Forbidden has matured, and that maturity is reflected in the arrangements, the execution, and the overall direction of the album. The riffing is adventurous, the transitions are sharp, and the compositions move with a natural fluidity that keeps the material engaging without sacrificing its heaviness.
Forbidden has returned with a complex, challenging record that refuses to follow a predictable path. The band isn’t afraid to take chances, even at this stage of its career, and that willingness to push boundaries has always been one of its greatest strengths. The music shifts direction when you least expect it, balancing aggression with thoughtful songwriting and intricate arrangements. There is plenty to discover here, and repeated listens reveal just how much attention has gone into shaping these songs.
Forbidden’s rich history will always be part of the equation, but this album is not about trying to recreate the past. It is about moving forward, embracing a new lineup, and proving that the band still has something meaningful to say. This is the beginning of a new chapter, and it should be appreciated for what it is: a heavy, technically ambitious, and confidently executed record that reflects both the band’s experience and its willingness to evolve. In a metal landscape that continues to demand fresh ideas and uncompromising intensity, Forbidden sounds right at home in 2026.
Mark Kadzielawa
No comments:
Post a Comment