New Jersey’s potent God Forbid made their reputation as part of a wave of American metal bands who reacted to the proliferation of “nu metal” throughout the 90s by going back to the basics of extreme heaviness. Like many bands to come of age at the turn of the century, God Forbid grew up on thrash, death metal, and hardcore in equal measure, and these styles all factor into their sound. In addition, their thought-provoking lyrics have set them apart from the pack. Live shows with kindred spirits like Lamb of God, Shadows Fall, and Trivium, among others, have also positioned God Forbid as a force to be reckoned with internationally.