Chevelle

[Self.Destructive.Pattern]

Chevelle is a bit like Sevendust: a second-tier band from the nu-metal era, not quite nu-metal, that seems to have a devoted core fanbase, but doesn't really break out of its niche. I would say Chevelle have never been "relevant" in a way that say, Staind have: Staind had their moment in the mainstream spotlight, but Chevelle have always seemed to be a little in the background. They have talent, but the derivative nature of their sound smothers their songwriting a bit. Sometimes they really hit the spot with me (such as in Jars, below). But for cultural and musical impact putting them above Tool is wrong. Tool have never really left the spotlight, Chevelle have never really been in it.

I hear what you are saying... but Sevendust is a heavy/ballad band to me. Yea, Lajon has a great voice.. but I cannot stand the cheesy lyrics, or love ballads from a band like them or even sounds like them. For me, Chevelle separates themselves from the rest of the bunch because I think they are a lot more talented than the crap that comes out these days especially in the Hard Rock scene. They were in the spotlight for a good amount when "Wonder What's Next", and "This Type Of Thinking" came out... they have always been in the spotlight, but like you said in the background. That's also what I like about Pete.. his lyrics can be deep, metaphoric, and he doesn't whine about relationships and how much he is a "Hollywood Star" like some "Hard Rock" bands.. (Nickleback, 3 Doors Down, etc...). His lyrics make you think, and even look up a word or two in the dictionary.

For me, I put them above Tool personally.. and I am not being biased.. I always found Tool to become old, and boring music. They have only been relevant recently because of Maynard and their devoted fan base..not musically. Not hearing anything from the band at all since 2006, Chevelle has released almost 4 records since then all which have reached gold status... it becomes more than just quality of music for me. Tool are a bunch of dicks, everyone knows that. But when a band like Chevelle is so personable with their fans, and makes consistent.. solid hard rock music.. they deserve a bit more here like many, many people and fans say and deserve to stop being compared to freaking Tool, or being labeled as a "Rip Off Band".

......And Jars?? One of their best songs