Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Cheva - Nameless EP - indy - 2006

Track Listing1. Nameless 2. Still I Say 3. Muzzled 4. End Times Catalyst

Given a 10 year history together, quality shines in the music Cheva has put on their 4 song EP, “Nameless”. Their grasp on modern metal is iron tight with an added bonus many hard rock bands don't have--radio marketability--fitting into the same niche as bands like Saliva, Breaking Benjamin, Finger Eleven, Alterbridge, etc. without any pretentiousness. If they can cull their abilities into a full-length without losing the steam of the EP, then they could stand along side the afore mentioned bands on the rock charts.

In May of 2006 Rich Lindamood of 13 Scars and Jahmbi, joined forces and became the new front man of Cheva. Andrew Bogert, former drummer of DreamWorks Records artist, Pressure 4-5 and original drummer for Cheva has returned to the band on guitar. Cheva is now; Jimmy Schultz (Drums), Andrew Bogert (Guitar), John Lunden (Guitar), Hector Gonzalez (Bass) and Rich Lindamood (Vocals). Through continuous gigging all around southern California, Cheva eventually built up a loyal following. In 2001 the band caught the attention of the up and coming label, Embryo Records based in Las Vegas, NV. They signed and fulfilled a two year record deal and are now in the process of shopping their brand new EP, “Nameless”.

The title track sets them right smack in the new millenium with its bouncier basslines and mix of shouted and smooth vocals. The formula of favorably catchy choruses, vocal hooks and layered guitar-work is consistent and enjoyable throughout. The drawback of familiarity though, could lead to a tendency towards homogenization of guitar sound that will eventually date the band if they fair to expand on the talents they have. "End Time Catalyst" with its pseudo-thrash rhythms that tend to the heavier side really separates itself from the others and would appeal to metalheads who like their servings less commercial. Rich's vocal delivey works really well heavy or light but I would say suggest that given the introspective nature of the lyrics, a bit more harmonizing on the choruses would help to draw the listener in to identify with the themes.

Bottom Line: Cheva has the talent, look and sound worthy of a label pick up.


LINKS:
cheva.net
Myspace.com/chevaband


DISCOGRAPHY:
• Self-titled EP. Self released, 1997
• Misunderstood EP, Self-released, 1999
• In Real Life, Full Length, Embryo Records, 2002
• Sampler 2004 “Jagermeister EP”, Embryo Records, 2004
• Sampler 2005 EP, Self released, 2005
• Nameless EP, Self released, 2006


BAND:
Rich - Vocals
Hector - Bass
John - Guitar
Drew - Guitar
Jimmy - Drums


--Nailer 03.26.07