Vena Sera (2007)

This Chicago trio occupies an awkward space in the hard-rock universe: Their technically complex metal isn't as arty or challenging as modern-prog titans Tool, yet they can't match the radio-friendly refrains of Nickelback. Nothing's changed drastically on their third major-label CD, Vena Sera. The hard-charging sound occasionally thrills: Sinewy first single ''Well Enough Alone'' and punkish ''Brainiac'' have heart-racing appeal. But Chevelle's reliance on a formula — chugging intro, choppy verses, clouds-parting choruses — begins to bore.