Chevelle

Ozzfest big shots Chevelle drop record number four, extending the traditions set down by major influence Tool, with the big difference being a little more radio savvy helping along their mainstream palatability. That means the guitar and bass work together way up front, creating dark and heavy textures while singer Pete Loeffler does his thing over the top. This band has the quiet-loud dynamic down to a science, so prepare to nod your head when you're not screaming along.

This Chicago trio has a fine guitar attack -- all ass-kicking riffs, twists and turns that recall
Tool, plus expert tension-and-release. Songs are another matter: Vena Sera is long on dark,
drab near-metal like "Well Enough Alone" and the Helmet-esque "Midnight to Midnight."