Bay Area metal legends, Forbidden, recently announced they have parted ways with guitarist Steve Smyth. The band announced Voivod guitarist Daniel Mongrain as Smyth's replacement for their summer live dates in Europe. Fan-filmed video of Mongrain's first show with Forbidden, at the Brutal Assault Festival in Josefov, Czech Republic on Augsut 8th, can be viewed below.

Smyth issued the following statement regading his departure:

“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!”

Says Forbidden: "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. Craig, Matt, Norman, Chris & Tim."

With Steve Smyth stepping away, Forbidden intends on not missing a beat.

The band adds: "Daniel Mongrain from Voivod will be stepping in for our next batch of European dates upcoming in August. Daniel is an astonishing & accomplished guitarist. His work in Martyr & Voivod is otherworldly! We are very happy to have him aboard for these dates. Daniel will be a great addition for the gigs and we must thank the guys in Voivod for letting us borrow him.
See you in Europe soon!"

Lastly a few words from Dan Mongrain: “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!"