Forbidden cover

Released 31 years ago this June

Forbidden

Black Sabbath · 1995

44 min · 10 tracks · hard rock · heavy metal · doom metal

A gritty fusion of metal riffs and atmospheric soundscapes reflecting a darker, more introspective Black Sabbath.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo progression
  • darker introspective themes
  • gritty atmospheric soundscapes
  • thoughtful listening for reflection
  • engaging narrative throughout

Maybe skip if you want

  • seek instant gratification
  • prefer upbeat party tracks

Where this album fits

Themes
guilt and redemption· mid-'90s metal landscape· crossover experimentation
Career context
Released on June 5, 1995, 'Forbidden' marked Black Sabbath's first album with vocalist Tony Martin since the early '90s. This record came during a period of fluctuating lineup changes and attempts to redefine their sound amidst a shifting musical landscape dominated by grunge and alternative rock.
Stylistic neighbors
Candlemass· Electric Wizard· Pentagram
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Draconian Times by Paradise Lost — Shares a similar blend of gothic atmosphere and introspective themes in a heavy metal context.
October Rust by Type O Negative — Combines dark lyrical themes with dense, atmospheric soundscapes, paralleling the emotional weight of 'Forbidden'.
The Angel and the Dark River by My Dying Bride — Explores themes of guilt and redemption through melancholic melodies and heavy riffs, akin to 'Forbidden'.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Illusion of Power 4:54
  • 2 Get a Grip 3:59
  • 3 Can't Get Close Enough 4:28
  • 4 Shaking Off the Chains 4:04
  • 5 I Won't Cry for You 4:48
  • 6 Guilty as Hell 3:28
  • 7 Sick and Tired 3:31
  • 8 Rusty Angels 5:00
  • 9 Forbidden 3:49
  • 10 Kiss of Death 6:09

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata