Classic thrash metal band Forbidden is down a guitarist these days, as they recently announced that Steve Smyth was leaving the band.
Having been with the outfit from 2009 to 2012 and then again from 2023 until just this past Monday, Smyth may not have been around for much of the band’s roughly 20 or so years but the split seems to be as amicable as it can be. He was featured in the band’s 2010 album Omega Wave.
News of the departure came via a joint statement on the band’s Facebook page. According to Smyth, his decision to leave the band stemmed from his desire to return to his own band One Machine. That, along with other musical projects he’d like to pursue, are why he’s walking away.
“Hey everybody, I’ve said this before in my career, but all things do reach their end at some point.
“As hard as this is to write this, I’ve decided it’s time to part ways with Forbidden, and return to my band One Machine as priority, along with other projects on the horizon, and of course session work, and teaching music as always.
“Forbidden was always a place I considered home, from the very first gig I played with the guys, the Thrash Of The Titans festival, back in 2001, touring across 2009/2010 with Russ and Mark, writing and releasing the Omega Wave album, the touring that followed 2010-2012, and the last year. It’s a home I’ll miss, but the memories will remain.
“One Machine is my own home that I’ve built myself, from before, and after my first stint with Forbidden, from 2009-2012. We are preparing to release a new EP, with touring starting up in September across Europe.
“Prior to rejoining Forbidden, I declared my intention to move between Forbidden and One Machine, in between schedules. It now appears those schedules are conflicting.
“I’d like to thank YOU the fans for all of your support over the years! I couldn’t do ANY of this without you!
“Craig and Matt especially for welcoming me back to Forbidden!
“To new additions Chris and Norman, Tim Healy, the crew, every promoter and agent, thank you for making the last year of music and travelling the world happen!
“I wish Forbidden all the best for the future, and all it may bring!”
To their credit, the rest of Forbidden were equally as gracious, wishing nothing but the best for their former bandmate.
“We understand and accept Steve’s decision to walk away for his own personal reasons and to finish what he started with One Machine.
“Steve had been by our side creating and playing music from the end of 2008-2012 and for the rebirth in 2023. He contributed much greatness along the way.
“We understand his situation better than most people possibly could.
“We all wish Steve the very best and success with One Machine. His Baby.
“Much love, respect and gratitude for the years Steve spent with Forbidden will always endure.
“Thank you, Steve.”
As for what the band has planned moving forward, they said they’ve recruited Voivod’s Daniel Mongrain to fill-in for Smyth on their upcoming European tour dates this August.
Looking forward to his time with Forbidden, Mongrain said he was excited to help the band since he’d been a “fan from the early days.”
“It’s a great honor for me to join Forbidden this summer in Europe! As a fan from the early days, I’m grateful for the opportunity and will do my best to pay respect to all the amazing talented guitar players who played in the band, Glen Alvelais, Tim Calvert (RIP), and Steve Smyth. See you soon!”