An update is long overdue

Wow, so the last post was the download for the KUSOOF "Transmissions From the Abyss Bizarre"... a shit ton has happened in the Dread Lair camp since then! Where to begin? Well, for starters, if you missed the news, SPECTRAL MANIFEST is now a trio. Ulfr Thorvaldson, formerly of the band EPIC DEATH, joined in mid-June as the band's new bass player. Yes, finally!!!!

The Lair released our first split release, PLUTONIAN SHORE/HUMUT TABAL "Oaths of Stygian Dusk," if you have yet to hear it, you should seek it out immediately. There are 200 hand numbered copies. Other releases include both the back catalog and latest release from the Colombian black metal band MANTUS, these titles are must haves for any fan of the underground. We also ventured into new territory for us and released French progressive doom metal band DEAD MOUNTAIN MOUTH's "Loka," a full length trippy adventure, which includes a cover of THE CURE's "A Hundred Years."

We acquired some more local Texas talent as of late, including MHINOTAHN, SOUL INQUISITION, OF FORSAKEN DIVINITY, VALGUD, VENOMOUS SUPREMACY, OVERDOSE, and oh, a retrospective release from the mighty FUNERAL RITES... the future is definitely looking impressive!

More updates to come, stay tuned! - CGG

Kusoof - Transmissions From the Abyss Bizarre

So, after some consideration, I decided not to release the posthumous compilation I had worked on for the Middle Eastern band KUSOOF for sale. The very nature of their demise was a result of feeling threatened by their own countries' governments. So, instead I have opted to simply offer it as a free download to all who want to check it out. The complete artwork is included. 10 tracks of excellent occult black metal. Hopefully, if you enjoy this as I think you will, you will seek out their four releases that are still available.

http://www.mediafire.com/?9549ku92wt2dt8h

On the horizon...

A lot has been going on as of late, lots of releases coming out. Strategizing future moves as well as strong considerations in launching the new catering venture... and even ideas stirring about for a new side project with a lot of my friends.

As far as Spectral Manifest goes, we have three shows coming up between now and mid June, after which we will retire from the stage for a short while to really put in some serious work on the album. We've got three brand new songs we are working on along with the six in the can, so things are definitely coming along. So, no Spectral Manifest live performances for the rest of the summer. We will see you in the autumn.
- C.G.G.

My Final Performance With AXIS IN COLLAPSE, opening for HELSTAR

Little did I know this would be my last show, but here it is in its entirety. This is also the only show we did with John "Hate" Ramos on guitar. Truth be told, I never rehearsed with him, and it was wild walking up on stage not knowing what to expect, but we pulled if off as best we could. And yes, my leg locked up and cramped on me second to last song, due to the cold weather and the wide open door behind the stage.. lol. Needless to say, both I and Mikey of HELSTAR had to leave the stage that night due to this. But the show must go on, I came back out after a few seconds of beating the crap out of it and closed the set with "Feasting With Nero." Good times.

The entire Spectral Manifest set @ Anti-Christ Mass last year

This is our entire performance filmed by Slaytanic Sal and Texas Metal Syndicate.

SPECTRAL MANIFEST "Wraith Horde Assault" Download

We have decided to unleash a free download of our live EP "Wraith Horde Assault," so enjoy and with our permission and the protection of the Wraithen Horde, spread it around the world, coast to coast. Tyrants unite!

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=PWBW7F70

Checking in from the Lair

Hails! All is well, lots going on in The Dread Lair camp as we gear up for the summer. Releases coming out from The Nephilim Terror, Sculpting Atrocity, Venomous Supremacy, and many more. We will also be releasing the Metal Summit 3 dvd with Plutonian Shore, Humut Tabal, The Nephilim Terror and Spectral Manifest.

Lots of great shows lined up. More to come.

Exiting a Collapse

In what will be but a footnote in a chapter, I have parted ways with AXIS IN COLLAPSE. It was fun while it lasted, and I am proud of the concept that I created with the band name, but it was inevitable that it would come to an end. I wish my friend Lazaro the best with the resurrected FUNERAL RITES. As for me, I carry on with SPECTRAL MANIFEST and I have some other projects up my sleeve. Thanks to everyone for the support through the good and the bad. ~ C.G.G.

CATHARSIS NOCTURNA - Gènesis Dràmatica de lo difunto

A phenomenal band from Argentina. This 4 track demo is one of my personal faves. If you like Emperor, chances are you will find something to enjoy in this.

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=9D7DYLFW

OMEN - Where Ravens Forever Fly

This OMEN hails from Malaysia and as of now has yet to release a full length album. Tons of splits, EPs and demos though. This demo was originally released in 2009 as a digital download and then as a physical cd release upon request. Late last year, The Dread Lair released 50 hand numbered copies of this one. Their brand of dirty, raw black metal is not for everyone, but for those who so desire, enjoy!

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=O58N8GPI

Axis In Collapse opening for Helstar in Houston

For me, growing up in Houston and listening to Helstar since I was a teenage kid, this is a pretty big deal. Even cooler is the fact that over the years I have become friends with most of the guys. If you haven't heard any of their latest album, Glory Of Chaos, you need to do so or risk finding that you aren't a real metalhead. It's by far the heaviest thing they have ever done and it will melt your face off. Come out on February 12th for their U.S. cd release show at Numbers.

More excerpts from the wraithen realm surface in new song "Forbidden Arts"

Must say I am quite stoked about the newest Spectral Manifest song "Forbidden Arts." It starts in one place and takes you on a journey throughout and wraps itself up quite nicely at the end. Look forward to getting a decent recording captured of it, there is one in existence right now, but haven't decided if I want to upload it to the world or not... in due time.