Chris Kontos Quits Forbidden, Citing Accounting and Business Disputes

Forbidden say they learned of their drummer’s immediate departure through social media, after previously expecting him back in 2027.

Chris Kontos has quit Forbidden with immediate effect, citing unresolved disagreements over accounting transparency and business decisions. His departure comes less than two weeks after the Bay Area thrash band released their first album in 16 years.

In a statement posted on 4 November, US time, Kontos said he had raised his concerns with the other members, management, legal representatives and accounting personnel. He described disagreements over decisions he opposed or said he only learned about afterwards.

“These issues have become irreconcilable,” he wrote. “I am stepping down as the drummer for Forbidden effective immediately.”

Forbidden’s response said the remaining members discovered his departure through the public post. They thanked him for his contribution to the new record and wished him well, without addressing his accounting or business allegations. Those allegations have not been independently established.

Both statements acknowledged the work they had made together. Forbidden’s self-titled album arrived on 23 October through BLKIIBLK, following 2010’s Omega Wave. Kontos said he remained proud of the music and videos, thanking the label, crew and fans for their support.

His exit changes the position outlined in September. In an 18 September statement reproduced by The PRP, Forbidden said Kontos and bassist Matt Camacho would miss their US tour with Heathen and Void for personal reasons. Both were then planning to return in 2027.

Kontos also attributed that touring absence to family and personal commitments and scheduling issues, according to NextMosh’s contemporary report. He asked fans to support Eli Lucas, who had been announced as his touring replacement.

Lucas was already covering drums, with Avery Thurman on bass. Neither November statement announces a permanent appointment for Lucas or a change to Camacho’s membership. Kontos has asked for privacy and said he will make no further comment.