Low Twelve - Officially Unfit Web Site

A name in metal you should probably get to know is Pete Altieri. A highly ambitious headbanger with a DIY mentality, Altieri’s self-created “Heavycore” movement, stemmed from his native Illinois, features associates from some of the deepest reaches of the underground such as SOULTORN, SYSTEMIC and OMINOUS as well as familiars like PRO PAIN. Having stamped down cancer, Altieri’s resilience and dedication to “pure” metal has shown through his Low Times quarterly magazine and his Brutality Report website, along with a ninety-minute DVD of underground metal videos, Roasting Posers, and the controversial Maggot Ridden Rotting Movie featuring Altieri’s band LOW TWELVE, once packaged with their Unfit for Human Occupancy EP. Now LOW TWELVE comes out with a dark and disturbing concept album This Side Toward Enemy that is equally vicious as it is entertaining.

If anyone out there remembers the Wendy O. Williams horror thrash concept album Maggots: The Record, there’s a small ambience of that gem reflected on This Side Toward Enemy, particularly with the dramatic sequences staged between the songs that traces the background of a serial killer on death row named Nolan Weeks. Featuring staged news flashes and various sound effects and screams, the story of This Side Toward Enemy isn’t anywhere near as cheeky or schlocky as Williams’ Maggots, but LOW TWELVE creates an ambient story of death that makes their brand of metal subversively more lethal. Particularly unnerving is the news clip talking about Weeks’ victims being found with panties stuck in their mouths. Tres sinister…

Beginning with “Stay of Execution,” Weeks is spared his initial death sentence and granted a final interview with a journalist that uncorks the details of his murder spree that were once blamed on satanic cults. The wake of the story and album of This Side Toward Enemy allows LOW TWELVE to crunch out Weeks’ narrative on such brutal tracks as “Kill Everything,” “Not Alive,” “A Private Hell” and “Death Draws Near.”

Altieri’s bulldog yelps are one of the most appealing elements to LOW TWELVE; his voice is menacing and unique, even in the midst of his agro-toned hardcore brethren. As LOW TWELVE has been lurking about since the late nineties, the raw quality of the band’s sound may astonish some people, but when you hear the mosh rhythms of “Your God,” you realize that LOW TWELVE is a band that has been long pounding bricks with every heavy note they peel off. The way Altieri scats his verses like Tom Araya does on SLAYER’s “Stain of Mind” from Diabolous in Musica keeps things pumping as the revelations behind Nolan Weeks’ atrocities are recounted through LOW TWELVE’s punishing grooves.

One thing about LOW TWELVE and Pete Altieri, there’s no accusing them of lying about lackadaisically. Roasting posers one minute and fighting lawsuits from principals appearing in Maggot Ridden Rotten Movie, Altieri sticks to his vision of a Heavycore underground where people get what he’s about. When you’ve fought back as much as Pete Altieri’s had to, it’s no wonder LOW TWELVE comes off sounding like a fistful of studs into your cavity-laden teeth…. Ray Van Horn Jr, AMP Magazine

Walk in the blood-stained steps of a killer as Low Twelve traces the murderous path of Nolan Weeks, one of the worst serial killers the world has ever known. This is not your typical paint-by-numbers Gore Metal album, Low Twelve incorporates tons of catchy Thrash Metal riffs, wicked breaks and a menacing mixture of harsh and guttural vocals. Just when you think you have this one figured out Low Twelve veers off in a new, more harrowing direction. This is a tormented view into the twisted mind of a psychopath that will leave you twitching and pleading for mercy. 9 out of 10 skulls. David Horn, SOD Magazine

WARNING: THIS ALBUM WILL LEAVE YOU FUCKED UP BEFORE YOU EVEN FINISH THE FIRST LISTENING!!!!

Not since KING DIAMOND's, "Abigail", have I found a metal album that's story held on to me as if death itself had me by the throat and demanded I pay attention, such as LOW TWELVE's, "This Side Toward Enemy." This album is punchy and vicious with death metal and thrash intertwined throughout this lyrically perfect CD. Be fully immersed in the experience of Nolan Weeks as he battles society and the voices in his head throughout a brutal uncontrollable killing spree. You will hear the voices, telling him to kill at a whiplash frenzied speed. Experience his cries for what seems to be relief from the demons of his abusive childhood and the horror of living day to "broke ass" day. "Within Lies," should be the first single released from this work of macabre art. It contains the punchy feel of Slayer or Fear Factory and has the "voices" that sends your head swirling into the mind of the killer. Also Gary Meskil, vocalist for hardcore legends, PRO-PAIN is featured on track, "Kill Everything." I still am deciding on the personal fate of Nolan even after the verdict is delivered. Schizophrenic psychopathic sodomizing beast or a normal human that has taken the next step that so many contemplate on a daily basis. No matter, lay down your weapons and accept the sentencing of LOW TWELVE's, "This Side Toward Enemy", you wont be sorry. Maggot, Midwest Metal

Firstly I should state that I have always been happy with all of the low twelve releases I have heard. The new album This Side Toward Enemy is some of their best work to date. The track Within Lies is my favorite on it and I am sure that will alternate in between the other songs as time goes by. In the literal sea of metal albums that we get regularly often a band gets a listen or 2 and then the cd collects dust because it really isn't anything new and / or refreshing. Lately it seems that only 40% of metal band releases are exceptional. The new Low Twelve cd kicks all ass. I wish more bands were making heavy records like this instead of following that European death / thrash trend that has become so boring at this point that I just skim through the cds as they all sound the same. With Low Twelve you get that AMERICAN ass kicking missing in today's music with the exception of a few bands that squeak by among that seas of crap out there at this time. Low Twelve are the real deal .... my only regret is that I live too far away to see them perform live as I am sure I would enjoy it. This new album has so many excellent guitar riffs it gave me a metal boner, a metal boner for me is something not achieved very often trust me. I recommend the new album to anyone looking for something that is actually good and memorable. Do yourself a favor get some Low Twelve, keep listening .... don't be an MTV mallcore sucka. Neighborhood Psycho, WBOR Megatrends in Brutality

Do you feel the blade against your neck; the cold steel bringing the red warmth to the light? It can mean only one thing. Those who are most brutal, those sickest, sadistic storytellers of Low Twelve are back again. And they’ve brought a little company with them; twelve others to be exact. Twelve of the most vile, demonic, and wicked killers are living inside the mind of Nolan Weeks, who is the focus of their new album. Since their arrival they’ve dwelled in his mind, impelling and pushing him to “Kill Everything.” Now, Nolan’s death toll has reached an incomprehensible number and as he sits so willingly on death row we get to hear his story from his point of view. This is the world of Low Twelve’s latest metal conquest; their concept album entitled This Side Toward Enemy. Of all of Low Twelve’s recordings, this latest is the most devastating to the poser world. It is thoroughly bursting with original and intense riffing. Low Twelve’s signature of severely unrelenting thrash wakens ultimate evil on this album. The storyline, if even taken by itself, is one of the darkest tales I have ever come across, but musically, it’s another story altogether. Set your fears to music and you might come close to what is contained in this conception. Low Twelve has always had the great ability to completely draw the listener into the story behind the song but never before has this skill been as strong as it is on This Side Toward Enemy. The mix is near faultlessness and envelopes you entirely in this maddening account psychotic serial killer Nolan Weeks. The album evokes feelings of nervousness; from the first track I felt hurried as if on the run from whatever might lie in wait inside my own head. Pete Altieri speaks for insanity itself and his razored vocals fly out at you at an inimitable speed and provides the expression of true wickedness. His voice is perfect for Low Twelve’s distinct and meticulously crafted music. It’s all in his delivery; Pete’s annunciations, though coarse and raspy, are always clearly understood. This quality is vital when telling a story of such bloody detail. There is also an ample use of guest vocals on the album including Gary Meskill of Pro-Pain. These added voices help to broaden the perspective of multiple personalities and are extensive enough to keep things varied but do not run the risk of overdoing it. Pete is most certainly still in charge here and his bass tone, which is just as commanding, rumbles and grinds your bones to powder and reverberates like a sledgehammer pounding a steel drum. Riff master Les Aldrich shows that he’s unquestionably on top of his game with guitar parts that interrupt the very synapses in your brain, replacing them with 12,000 volts of metal madness to fry every nerve in your body. In this endless thrash metal onslaught of stabbing riffs Les conjures up true iniquity and flesh pealing crunch from his guitar. His style, though well founded in the roots of real thrash, is unique and his prowess overwhelms. Les’ foreground demanding solos are plentiful and effectively haunting with eerie guitar effects. The drum work of Wes Pollack is ever-precise, lightning fast, and concise. His capable ability undeniably drives this blood-filled story home. The firmest of foundations are laid down by his pummeling skill. These beats are every bit as malicious as the guitar work and make him stand out as having a drum style all his own. The level of mental instability is only taken further as each song progresses with continually mounting heaviness and startling time changes. It would be hard to find song structure any better than this.

Now that I’ve covered what’s on the disc I’ll move to the packaging that surrounds this torturing tour de force. The cover, composed of artwork from the warped mind of Jeff Gaither, acts exactly as a cover should. It, in itself, tells much of the story and with a bloodied hand guides you in for a lethally closer look. Adorning this cover is the tormented figure of Nolan Weeks surrounded by twisted manipulations that are the faces of the twelve killers that haunt the story’s central character. Gaither’s art is ripe with sickening detail and is always Low Twelve’s first choice, and rightfully so. Just inside you will find, bordered by blood, a group photo of the band with seemingly stoic yet apparently wise expressions on their faces. Thrown into the mix on the two adjoining inside pages are photos of murder, murderers, bloody handprints and the illegible and incoherent scribbling of a mind pushed too far. This combined makes up the background on which you’ll find the musical, artistic and recording credit info. These pages unfold yet again to display a poster, decorated with weapons and yet more blood, containing the lyrics to these neurotic songs. On the very back page, a quick but sufficiently described synopsis of This Side Toward Enemy.

Low Twelve’s This Side Toward Enemy demands to be seen, heard, and felt. This album is the perfect combination of thrash metal and mental illness. It’s more than just a good album because it entertains in so many aspects. There is no other band like Low Twelve; that is a certainty. Let us pray that there are no other Nolan Weeks roaming free in the world. Get the whole story at www.thissidetowardenemy.com or www.lowtwelve.com. Luke Offield, Heavycore Reviews

The best way I can describe this CD is brutal. Low Twelve brings a no holes barred assault on this release. The songs are fast, heavy and at times violent. The group has some cleverly placed samples, effects and odd voices thrown in for added shock and fear factors. Very interesting release that is sure to give you the creeps if you haven’t been subjected to music of this nature. There is no doubt in my mind that this CD isn’t for everyone. If you like bands like Cannibal Corpse, Death, or Slayer you will surely enjoy Low Twelve. J. Sohn, The Audio Nut

Like starring down the barrel of a automatic weapon as it's bullets come whizzing towards your skull comes a 3 song EP from LOW TWELVE named, "12 Ways To Make You Die." This defines brutality at its finest moments and this is just a taste of the blood that is about to drop with the full release album that is about to annihilate the music scene named, "This Side Toward Enemy." Not to mention the full length feature film and graphic novel that follow the same title. You can tell by the names of the tracks and the very clear yet very drill sergeant like vocals of Pete Altieri that this is nothing short of a blood drenched torture fest, which is about Nolan Weeks, a diluted and sadistic serial killer. Can't wait for the full story to fill me in. Being a fan of gore metal, I really relate to these lyrics, but in a different sense, this has more class to it. Not to mention the brutality of a death metal song with more of a understandable beat down and the sick and twisted voices that echo through the songs as heard through the mind of Nolan. Will this be the thing that pushes me or you over the edge and into the hollowed walls of an insane asylum, we can only find out when the full madness hits the shelves with LOW TWELVE's, "This Side Toward Enemy!!" Maggot, Midwest Metal

For 2 years, my brothers in Low Twelve have kept me waiting for "This Side Toward Enemy", their epic concept album that would be destined to top every metal concept album up until now...well, they never said that it would top every other metal concept album, but considering their previous output, I just naturally assumed it would...and when the "12 Ways To Make You Die" sampler was placed in my stereo, my suspicions were confirmed. The only metal act that I could see topping this recording is King Diamond and only because King, like Pete Altieri, knows how to tell a story and tell it well. I think the reason I dig the concept so much is because of the time put into it and the originality behind it.
A serial killer who REALLY does hear voices! He's like Gacy, Dahmer, Ramirez, and Ted Bundy rolled into one! I love it!

But aside from the excellent concept, the biggest reason I'm digging this material is the music. Honestly, Low Twelve has come full circle as accomplished metal musicians and by the sound of it, they've also accomplished the daunting task of capturing their insanely heavy live sound in recorded format. Wes Pollock's drumming never ceases to amaze me. The "Kill Floor Kid" is so technical and yet, you can still groove to his beats. The same goes for Les Aldridge, who as far as I'm concerned, is quite possibly the most underrated metal guitarist on the planet. The riffs/solos Les writes have always found favor in the eyes of my fellow twelve heads and I, and his playing on "Enemy" is no different. All of the songs have interesting song structures, and yet, I can still headbang to them. Which to me, is all I ever ask of any band.

And finally, Pete Altieri has given the vocal performance of his life. Even the guest vocalists that the band have employed (Gary Meskill included) sound like amateurs singing next to this man. Overall, the members of Low Twelve should be proud of how far they have come since "Flesh of The Weak" and hopefully how far they will continue to go. Each member has truly outdone himself in one way or another, and the unity in this band is undoubtedly the reason for their continued evolution and success.

Cheers to you guys, and here's looking towards the full version of "This Side Toward Enemy". Josh Thorne, Freelance Journalist

No matter what, Low Twelve keeps playing heavy thrash/death metal. The Illinois’ trio ignores the trends, proving that independence of the metal mind is still the virtue. The new MCD is the next step of Low Twelve’s musical evolution but the foundation is the same. Heavy and sharp riffs, powerful vocals, mainly mid-paced drumming are still the heavy core of the band’s style and if you like Low Twelve’s previous materials, you will be delighted hearing the new one. But the band’s members become better and better musicians as well and the instrumental progression is well audible. Their choice is obvious when we analyze the level of aggression and brutality: it sets the new standard for Low Twelve. The new material is heavier and a bit faster than “Flesh of the Weak” – this is the way how people improve American metal: no compromises, no excuses, no bull-shit, only the good musicianship and the strength. The new Low Twelve’s release has two very important elements that make it a very special one. The CD contains live tracks that were recorded before Low Twelve’s guitarist, Tim McCleland death. It is his great legacy. The second element that shows that Low Twelve cares of the fans is DVD with some live material, great pictures from behind the scene so the reality of American metal in the objective and uncompromising camera eye. I guess that if you think seriously about forming the heavy metal band seeing such material you won’t have any doubts that the idea is worth realizing. On the other hand, if you are a devotee or pretend to be the next saint, seeing different Low Twelve’s activities you will understand how metal life can be interesting and if it is not too late for you yet, maybe you won’t waste your chance to join the hordes of true American metal fans. Damian, Metal Side (Poland)

Once again Low 12 has released one of the most abrasive and brutal packages ever. This DVD/CD package appropriately called the Maggot Ridden Rotting Movie and Unfit for Human Occupancy Cd bleeds exactly what the underground metal scene is made of. The production quality of the Maggot movie is highly impressive for guys armed with a simple camcorder who are out to simply tear you a new asshole. Most of the live audio recording is a little muddy at times due to the extreme sound level of the band, but other tracks such as Low 12's anthem song Heavycore come through clean and crisp and show you just what Low 12 is made of. At times the Dvd is just outright funny. The opening segment features fans attempting to pronounce the title of the Maggot movie, the ball slapping loud segment nearly had me in tears and other features such as the poser tampon game give the DVD something other's just dont have. The Maggot DVD is definitely a good one to just get together and watch while drinken some beers with you buddies.

The Unfit for Human Occupancy CD is a perfect example of exactly what Low 12 is all about, abrasive, no fucking frills, HEAVY METAL. Armed with such tracks as "Lines Drawn" and "Heads on a Stick," Unfit is just a small taste of Low 12's twisted world. An added bonus is the fan favorite "Crawlspace" live, which delves into the world of the twisted Chicagoan serial killer John Wayne Gacy.

All in all Low 12 seem to have stepped back in time to a point when heavy music came in a simpler purer form. When bands didn't focus so much on stage shows and strange sounds, but simply wanted to play the heaviest music possible. Low 12 is a defining band in the underground metal scene and if you thought this package of nastiness was heavy, just wait till you see them live. Joshua Gate, Forensic Spotlight Video Show

The Maggot Ridden Rotten Movie is yet another fine piece of what METAL is all about from one of the hardest working bands in the national underground. I have come to expect nothing less from Pete Altieri & the band LOW TWELVE. The MRRM offers metal fans an intimate look into the armpit of METAL via fights, tits, drinking & of course, the kick-ass tunes of LT as they criss-cross the Midwest.. On top of the carnage the dvd allows viewers to interact through a game of identifying & stomping poseurs, . . . it all makes for a lot of laughs & headbanging. With nice packaging & an added cd of official LT tunes this $20 product makes it a must have for all underground fanatics. Robb Chavez, Robb's Metal Works Video Show

Low Twelve, one of my favorite brutal metal bands, strikes again with yet another heart stopping release "Unfit For Human Occupance!" This is one of those bands where you'll listen to one album and then go on a binge trying to find all their albums - I doubt you'll ever be disappointed in any of the Low Twelve releases. Even their older releases are Epic in their own rights. Its almost a guarantee that you'll be pounded through and through by heavy, brutal and wise tracks. This is music you'll never forget.

I haven't had a chance to watch the DVD portion of this 2 disc ("Maggot Ridden Rotting Movie") set, but I'm sure it'll be great! Wednesday, Space Junkies Magazine

So, I get home after work yesterday and look in the mailbox. A routine like any other day EXCEPT that on THIS day I hold in my hand a package from the Low Twelve Command Center. I ran in and tossed the rest of the mail, including some bills, aside. Those fuckers can wait because I've got a Maggot Ridden Rotting fucking Movie to watch!!!

It was excellent. At first I wansn'tt sure what to expect but there was so much in there to see, how could anyone NOT be pleased by this nasty-ass DVD. With the live footage, talking with the guys on the road and even a history lesson, it kept me glued to the tv. And if all THAT hadn't, the dump truck load of T & A sure did. Yet among all this brutal mayhem, was the sobering reminder of WHY we are able to live this way. The footage of ground zero, talking with the Firefighters of New York, and the respect for the troops who keep us free to enjoy our metal lives.

But it wasn't ALL so heavy-hearted. I had a blast taking out that ugly fucking poser with tampons again, and again. And with the great stories you guys shared as well as other things like the Gordildo, to not be entertained, you'd have to be dead. By the way, did that girl at least get a copy of the album for TRYING to get that thing in her mouth? HA ha!

And then to get finished with the dvd, light up a smoke like I had just fucked all the Dixie Chicks HARD in the ass, and press play on the cd player only to be brutalized some more by the "Unfit" CD. Almost more than a man can take in one day, but believe me, I pressed on. Just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed to "Unfit/Maggot" package. You guys never cease to amaze me. Luke, a fan from Columbia Missouri

"Its a brutal world", may be a lyrical line to their track "Brutal World," but it also sums up what this band, Low Twelve has to offer you the music listener. If you like your music heavy with guitar riffing madness and deep shout 'happy' vocals then this is the band for you! If you pop this disc into your CD tray and hit play and the first note you hear doesn't strike you down then this isn't the band for you, if however you can't help but raise your fist in the air and start thrashing around in a mosh pit frenzy then rock on, you'll love this disc more than any other in your collection! Right from the start you'll be lured in and encased by the sheer power this band wields both instrumentally and vocally. My advice, play it loud and enjoy! Wednesday Elektra, Space Junkies Magazine

"Veteran hate-filled hardcore act that wants to brutalize you with their NYHC style of beat-down fueled rage. Twelve damaging studio tracks along with four live tracks that make this totally worth your while. Similar to Merauder and Sworn Enemy in a street brawl with Pantera and SOD." Dave Brenner, Metal Maniacs

"Low Twelve's founder Pete Altieri is a man who did many great things for brutal music world, but especially one of them is very important. He established Heavycore Organization, a powerful union of bands playing heavy metal in different, but always not commercial forms. When you visit www.heavycore.org (highly recommended by the way), the first thing you see are the words: No posers allowed. So you can guess now what Low Twelve plays if bands founder doesn't like the posers so much. If you still don't know it, I will tell you: heavy, uncompromising, good music. Pretty simple answer, but Low Twelve's music is very easy to describe. It is not trendy stuff, but heavy to the core, powerful thrash metal with the elements of metal-core and death metal, based on very rhythmic riffing and raw (but a bit melodic as well) vocals. Someone can say that Low Twelve plays music in the Pantera's vein. Someone else could tell something about Crowbars influences. I found such comparisons in different Low Twelve's reviews. I could agree with such opinions but it is better to say that Low Twelve is original and fresh band. Their compositions are mostly mid-paced, well written and executed. Few of them are even catchy, but lets say it again absolutely not commercial. That's why posers are not allowed." Damian, Metal Side

"First thing I thought when hearing USA´s LOW TWELVE was, damn, these guys remind me of PRO PAIN, especially in the vocal department. Also hear a bit of PANTERA in there. With their Metal / Hardcore combo they hit hard and heavy like a runaway freight train full of testosterone and uncompromised aggression. You´ve got major attitude here and plenty of earthshaking riffage. Despite the simplistic song structures it's poignant,
in your face and genuinely mean. This is Heavycore, wimps need not apply." Cheryl, Metal Gospel

"I first had a taste of low twelve on the harder, the better compilation and the taste of their own brand of thrash metal really satisfy my cravings for such genre. This cd is composed of heavy tuned down guitar riffs and some guitar solos that reminisce the good old 80's thrash metal sound mix with a really good drummer that knows when to utilize his double pedal plus a really tough guy sounding vocals that will scare the hell out of those posers. Their lyrics deals with the sufferings of ordinary people and the posers in the scene. What surprised me on this cd is their song "S-21" it have some parts in Filipino(tagalog)! There are a total of 16 tracks on this cd that include some live tracks. this will make all the moshers really happy." Nikky, Youth for a Cause Magazine (Philippines)

"When I was first introduced to this band by a good friend, I was a bit skeptical of what was to be expected from a band that I hadn't really heard too much about, but when my band played a show with them, I was totally impressed with their music and attitudes towards the music scene in general. These guys possessed a certain drive and determination that is very rare in the Midwest. LOW TWELVE's album "FLESH OF THE WEAK" starts out heavy as hell, and stays heavy till the very end. These guys take no prisoners when it comes to expressing what they really feel and putting every ounce of energy into their music. To keep pushing on in today's music scene is something this band has done through the past several years and to be located in the Midwest on top of it is something I can truly admire. The album is a total balls-out assault on worldwide politics and situations. LOW TWELVE is an old-school metalcore group that demands to be heard in one way or another from the heavy grinding guitars down to the double bass drum beats. The vocals are reminiscent of early NYHC/metalcore, which would be understandable being that Pete's (lead vocalist) background consists of living in NY for many years then moving to the Midwest. All I gotta say is this band is truly a band to keep your eye on and to definitely give a listen. I highly suggest buying FLESH OF THE WEAK for your heavy music collection." Jason Z, Turkey Vulture Records

"Now these guys are serious. Truly and dangerously serious. They play hard core with influences from Pro Pain among others, but all their influences are filtered through their personal style and the result is somehow unique. They have their own sound and style and they copy no other band. One thing to like. The arrangements are groovy and heavy and very good. Hard Core straight in your face, with no compromises, or pretending to be something it’s actually not. Two things to like so far. The musicianship is good and although the songs are not very complex, they are unbelievably catchy. Well thought riffs and fitting vocals, with a rhythm section that just keeps punching your face with every drum bit or bass line. Three things to like and counting. Despite being a hard core band, they do have a few lead guitars, not so many solos maybe, but they use lead guitar in their riffs and that’s rare for hard core. Four things to like. I can find many more things to like, like the good production for example, but I don’t want to continue rumbling on. The point is that these guys are absolutely ready to sign to a major label and that their music is good. Period. Check out www.lowtwelve.com for more info." Agelos Kanarelis, Tombstone Zine (Greece)

"This big surprise came from America, and what made this album even better is that these guys sent this album by themselves in one of the most complete promo packs we have ever received . . . they combine enough interesting elements in their music such heavy metal (of course), plus some death, enough hard core, and an obvious Pro-Pain influence, which made their album simply irresistible to me . . . you have more than 70 minutes of pure Heavy Metal . . . " Manos Fountoulakis, metal-guide.com (Greece)

""It’s a brutal world that we live in…" Man, I just can’t get this out of my head! The song "Brutal World" is surely a pit starter. If you like things brutal and heavy "Flesh OF The Weak" is the shit for you." Alexander Dela Cruz, In Dark Purity Magazine (Philippines)

"Low Twelve’s "Flesh of the Weak" is a brutal compilation of poser shredding metal that is not for the weak at heart. If you like korn or limp dick GET THE FUCK OUTA DODGE, this is no place for a lil pansy like you. With a brutal mixture of raw thrash talent such as this, they are bound to shred all that stand in their way. The CD is kicked off with a song entitled "brutal world". I found that this song was the perfect beginning to a killer record. After hearing that I knew I was in for something outstanding. "Brutal world" typifies exactly what they are all about, SHREDDING POSERS. Even in the lyrics you can see just how brutal these guys really are, "its survival of the fittest, and I’m fit enough to run you down. Let this crowd be my witness, I won’t let up until you drown". HELL FUCKIN YEAH! "Brutal world" is followed by "begging to die" which continues the onslaught of pure thrash rage. Now what makes low twelve unique? How bout the fact that they are insanely heavy and there is still MUSIC. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard or seen a band and they were just hitting strings. This is totally untrue for low twelve. This melodic music is most obviously found in the beginning of the song "S-21" where you will find an classical guitar melody that is soon layered under this awesome ballad type solo. Not fast but open and atmospheric. A perfect way to start a song. This is wonderful slow melodic part is followed by the brutal thrash sound they have and they do it with style. They don’t play nice and melodic and just say fuck it. But rather they make the transition quite well. "S-21" is definitely a highlight of the CD showing of the mass amounts of talent. One of my favorite tracks is #10 "thin skinned". "Thin skinned" is a song about true metal getting shot down by fucking posers and brainwashed MTV followers. Everyday I hear people talking about how they are true metal heads and yet when I ask them who slayer is they reply "whose that?" or "SLAYER SUCKS". Um excuse me?! This song is directly addressing poser metal by taking a steel toe boot and shoving it up the asses of the limp dick fans of the world. Nothing says it better than the phone calls that follow the song from all walks of people. From the fag korn lover to the kid who got kicked out of school for singing "crawlspace" (track 8). These phone messages also provide a comical relief from the brutal metal. Hey "J-doggy" if you are out there GO FUCK YOUR BOYFRIEND YOU POSER FAG!

Over all this CD absolutely KILLS! A definite must have for all true metal heads. And if you are a poser, take heed to the advisory on the back and keep walking.

"This stuff is what we can call heavycore. In fact, the leader of this American band, Pete Altieri, runs an international organization of heavy bands named that way . . . music created with short, relentless, and catchy riffs . . . vocals have the distinctive elements of core: the street screams and some guttural growls that spit criticism on society and our own decadence." David Fernandez, Metal Command Fanzine (english translation, originally printed in spanish)

"Here's how she went down, oops I mean how it went down. She got high and then horny and was dying to see the site after hearing me talk about it for the last 9 months. Of course we went straight to the skank of the week and then the shrine of skanks. She suggested I e-mail you and then asked if I had ever been blown while e-mailing. Unfortunately the answer was no so she went to town. Engulfing and deep throating while teasing the tip with her tongue ring. After about 20 minutes of pleasure torturing just as I was about to explode she ripped me into the bedroom demanded that I put her knees behind her ears and fuck the dog shit out of her. I was all too happy to oblige. After a very short rest she climbed on top and played cowgirl marvelously. So that is how I cracked a nut twice and she had three BIG O's and woke up the neighbors before we got back to the site. So again thanks to your site I got some phenomenal ass. We then checked out the Heavycore site while she got stoned again and it was back to the bedroom for two more rounds of romping nastiness. Needless to say I was a raw motherfucker in the morning all because of you and that crazy lowtwelve.com site. What can she say it brought out the brutality in her. Hope this shit isn't to sick for the lonesome bastards out there. Actually it's a good lesson to be learned bring your woman to lowtwelve.com and let the nasty brutality begin. Or be a big pussy if your cock can't handle it(this is for the posers out there get the fuck off the site). She wants to know if we can borrow the big cock!" Rich from Bloomington IL after banging his girlfriend for a while

"a crushingly heavy quartet from Illinois whose 16-track disc is not for the weak of heart. Strong enough to rip the wallpaper off of the wall, these purveyors of all that is heavy take a hardcore attitude and lay down face ripping riffs around ultra tight rhythms to create a brutal sound whose urgency can’t be denied" 3:16 Productions

". . . there's a lot of hardcore and a little bit of Slayer in this Pro-Pain/Macabre influenced slab of sickness. Vocalist Pete Altieri barks and shouts like a prison warden during a riot. Crushing, chaotic musical disorder for the desensitized and disgruntled." Aaron Small, Brave Words and Bloody Knuckles

"a full throttle riff-fest . . . sure to do some serious damage to unsuspecting speakers. Low Twelve eats nu metal bands for breakfast." Sin, Ded Kitty ZIne

"Feel those kick drums pound your chest, that's what Low Twelve is all about - fast, heavy, and strong content. If you have heart problems you best put it back on the shelf, you will start a pit in your living room with this one. I slapped my mom when I heard this . . . Trench is my favorite song - track 4 will send you right to the floor!" Crumbles, Underground Khaos Magazine

"At first glance, another "metal" cd, but after just the first intro, I was floored. Totally brutal, these guys don't fuckin' play games, the real shit is right here on this disc! Excellent!" Ron Laub,WLVR 91.3

"I was really impressed by this cd and the band totally kicks ass! A lot of thinking went into this and the lyrics are great! These guys will go really far if they keep up the good work and the great attitudes. Heavycore is a great idea too, support the music and the lifestyle!" Kit Kottrell, Metal Director, WXLV 90.3 FM

"Debut album of this four-piece who began their career in 98 and still has the same line-up. Musically, they follow a more modern thrash metal style, with a vocal style similar to Crowbar and other bands in that vein, but with more energy and speed. Fans of neothrash will like this." Strike Metal Zine (Brazil) translated by David Ferrnadez from original Portuguese version

"It took some time but the beasts of brutality in Low Twelve managed to pull together a full CD of some of the most potent Hardcore-Metal that has ever been unleashed upon the human ear. I have waxed on about these Illini-bashers for three mini-releases and frankly I have run out of verbiage to express how on top of their game I think that they are so all I can say now is if you are thrilled by bands like PANTERA, PRO-PAIN or SLAYER and wish there were more younger bands coming up like them - then here is the fulfillment of that wish. “Enemy of the State” is the current track of choice here but that changes almost as quick as the pounding of the bands double bass drums, they are all killers. Visit the Low Twelve website, www.lowtwelve.com for more information including their weekly Brutality Report. David Lee, Music America Magazine

"Well, if you listen to music about getting beat up playing hopscotch or getting dumped by your girlfriend then enter the pit for your beating. Posers Die!!! Low Twelve just kicked your ass!! Twin guitar work by Tim McCleland and Les Aldridge is the best I've heard in a long time. Check out the leads on "Meltdown" and the "Crawlspace" riffs. The intricate bass work on "S-21" shows us a technical side of Pete Altieri's intensity. I really liked how the kick drum was in the mix showing us the frenzy that is Wes Pollock. The "Thin Skinned" intro also shows us that Siamese twins joined at the upper torso and hip shouldn't be separated but left together to gargle and quack in their own jealousy. Hey Jaydoggie, why didn't you tell us you were Libaraces kid? Buy this CD at E. Peoria and Sheridan Rd CO-OP or at Mother Murphys or Midwest Exchange in Bloomington/Normal area. To order online www.lowtwelve.com SEE YOU IN THE PIT!!!!" Jeff Eaton, Admit One Publications

"Hard hitting, head banging metal exploded from my stereo and nearly knock me on my ass! From start to finish you get a taste of why this midwestern group is making heads turn and wannabe metal musicians squirm. Low Twelve's newest release, Flesh of the Weak, definitely shows the talent they possess. The lead singer and bass guitarist, Pete Altieri, has a deep harsh voice that penetrates you. The hard guitar licks and drum rolls pull the music together giving it a smooth professional sound. While listening to their tracks, I couldn't help but think of the group Sepultra. Given that Low Twelve has it's own unique sound, some of the vocals and guitar work definitely hold a Sepultra style to it. This CD not only has the music that makes you want to get up and kick some ass, but the lyrics strike just as deep. You may find with other metal groups that you can't understand what the hell they are saying, it just isn't the case here. Pete does an excellent job of making his lyrics clear to the audience. Low Twelve not only wants you to get into the music but into the lyrics. There are some live tracks along with the studio songs to add a little change up to the CD. I also found the beginnings of some of the tracks to be hilarious, such as on track 10 when they take an actual message from "Matt". The company he is with I will not disclose, as you will need to listen to the CD to find out! However, be prepared to laugh your ass off! If this CD falls into the right hands the backlash will be explosive! I can see Low Twelve being the next Pantera, Black Sabbath, or Sepultra. The talent is there and they have definitely made everything fall into place with this release. Warning, this CD is not for the weak of heart. However, if you are ready for the adrenaline to flow and the energy to surge, pop this CD in your stereo!" Kelly Buckner, Nefarious Magazine

"Low Twelve's "Flesh of the Weak" is the answer to the best of midwest hardcore! All local bands ought to be this dedicated to the brotherhood of the underground. Can't get enough of the "jackhammer rape drumming". Now it is abundantly clear why tampons are hurled at Low Twelve shows - to shove into you bloody ears so as not have a messy mosh pit! Times like these, I wish I was a guy who's hung like a Swedish plow horse! One Union Underground!!!!!!" Diane Demeter, WWHP Radio

"This thing is musically heavy metal, thrash, old school, new school. It is for sure heavy hitting! Great quality recording with a good mix. It's hard musically to compare these guys to anything out there. It's a great compliment they are not a carbon copy. This is definitely head banging music that gives me violent tendencies, and I could definitely imagine myself in the mosh pit at a live show. These guys kick ass! Those who do not like them either A do not like metal or B are total poser/pussies. Get this and support the true underground." Berry Ruffin, Blowtorch Magazine

"Holy fucking shit, this fucking rules. Can you say heaviest fucking shit on the planet? Anybody that likes music that will rip your fucking head off and shit down your neck should definitely pick up a copy of Flesh of the Weak. Killer drums, wicked ass guitars, brutal bass and vocals that would make the most vicious serial killers cry like little bitches. So go buy a copy if you aren't too scared!" Bonesaw, a Twelve Head from Colfax Illinois

"I got the cd - it fuckin kicks ass. I love all the songs on it man. They all fuckin rule. This cd is gonna make posers around the world piss their pants. It's fuckin' BRUTAL!!!!!!!!! LOW TWELVE FOR EVER!!!!!!!" Tim Roe, a Twelve Head from Pontiac Illinois