Chevelle, as the name implies, are gear heads – a passion passed down from their father, whose hobby is building street rods. Sam, Pete and Joe Loeffler (three of a total of seven siblings) are brothers – as their name implies. They are also carpenters – another direct imprint of their father's. But first and foremost, Chevelle is a distinctly intense rock band from Chicago.

Musically, Chevelle creates a soundscape steeped in shards of moody guitars and propulsive rhythms, while intensely personal and emotional lyrics swivel clarity within mystery. Is it any wonder that the band's influences range from Helmet, Firehose and Tool, to Sinead O'Connor and even Cat Stevens? Singer/lyricist Pete wears his heart on his sleeve, but does so more through vocal emotion than black and white dialogue.

Sam, Pete and Joe seem to read one another's thoughts on stage, via a sibling-inherent telepathy. The trait is uncanny, yet somehow expected from three who have spent their whole lives in such close quarters. While they were habitually bashing away in their parents' basement from the beginning, the band was also busy booking gigs. Although they started out playing the obligatory party and outdoor social event circuit, in short order Chevelle was being booked in Chicago clubs such as the Fireside Bowl and Lounge Axe. Joe, the youngest member, is one of a few who can brag about playing Chicago's prestigious Double Door when he was a mere fourteen.

Chevelle eventually made a fan out of renowned producer Steve Albini, who produced the trio's 1999 debut album, "Point #1," for the independent Squint label. Interest from major labels soon followed, as the trio signed a recording contract with Epic Records. In 2002, they released their major label debut, "Wonder What's Next," on which they worked with another renowned producer in the alt metal genre, Garth Richardson, aka GGGarth.

Chevelle members are --

• Sam Loeffler - drummer
• Pete Loeffler - singer/guitarist
• Joe Loeffler - bass

Notable songs include --