Metal Anarchy

Forbidden bassist Matt Camacho and drummer Chris Kontos will be sitting out the band’s upcoming U.S. tour. During their absences, bassist Avery Thurman and drummer Eli Lucas will be filling in.

Forbidden said the following:

“Hello, Forbidden People. We’re letting you all know that Matt & Chris unfortunately can’t be a part of our upcoming US tour with Heathen & Void, starting on October 23rd. They both have personal reasons that they can’t make this trip. Please respect their privacy as we do and support their decision.

That being said, they’re both planning on being back in the fold in 2027, as we have a full slate of touring coming up to support our first new album in 16 years — a record that both Chris & Matt are a part of and made amazing contributions to.

We’ve already been preparing/rehearsing the set for the last few weeks with Eli Lucas (drums) & Avery Thurman (bass). Both of these guys are absolutely insane musicians in their own right. Eli was the runner-up as Forbidden’s drummer during our international search back in 2011. He barely missed the cut by a whisker to Sasha Horn, simply because Eli was a little too young & inexperienced at the time. Since then, he’s gained a reputation as one of the Bay Area’s best drummers. Avery is being borrowed from the legendary Blind Illusion for this tour. He’s a 21-year-old bass prodigy who’s been quickly making a name for himself with his insane technique & raging stage presence. Both of them have no shortage of energy & musical prowess. We’re ecstatic to have them aboard for the tour, with the blessings of both Matt & Chris.

We’re working on a set spanning most of our history, revolving around 18 songs that we can pull in & out each night.

See you out there on tour starting October 23rd at The Usual Place in Las Vegas.”

Camacho also commented:

“There is nothing more satisfying than playing for Forbidden fans, which is why it pains me, due to circumstances out of my control, that I will miss the upcoming US tour.

I want to thank Avery Thurman from Blind Illusion for stepping in for me, and thank Team Forbidden for understanding.

This is the first tour I will miss since 1987, and I’ll be super excited to rejoin my brothers in 2027.

HORNS UP!!!! You’re in good hands. This lineup is insane!”

Kontos added:

“Hey everyone, I wanted to share that I will not be able to join Forbidden on the upcoming US tour. It all comes down to some very important family and personal commitments, as well as timing that just doesn’t line up right now.

I’m really bummed to miss it because I was looking forward to hitting the road with the band and crew and seeing all of you out there.

Thank you so much for your understanding and support. Please show my replacement, Eli Lucas, the same respect and support you would show me. Eli is a fantastic drummer who will certainly deliver an outstanding performance on this tour.

I’m hoping I’ll have another chance to tour down the line and see you all again.”