Close Your Eyes is the popular hardcore band from Abilene, TX. They just released their third studio album Line in the Sand on Oct 29th on Victory Records. 

We would like to thank Jordan Hatfield (drummer) of Close Your Eyes for speaking with BreatheCast. 

BreatheCast: How does it feel to finally be releasing your new album Line in the Sand (Oct. 29)?
CYE:It feels great. A lot of hard work went into the production of this album, and I am extremely pleased with the way it turned out. 

BreatheCast: How would you describe your sound for people that haven't heard of you guys and what artists have influenced your sound?
CYE: Bands like Comeback Kid, With Honor, The Offspring, mixed with heavier stuff like Bury Your Dead have definitely had a huge influence on our sound. As far as how to describe our sound, I would consider it melodic/punk/hardcore.  

BreatheCast: Tell us the story behind your song, "Frame and Glass"?
CYE: Never having regrets and to keep pushing forward. It's great to have memories of great times that you've had in your past, but don't dwell on them. Life goes on, and there's no sense in living in the past.

BreatheCast: What advice would you give to up and coming Christian bands?
CYE: Stay true to your faith, rely on God to guide and direct you, and take advantage of every single opportunity that's been placed before you. A lot of musicians expect opportunities to come to them, but it does not work like that. Work hard and keep your sights set on the path that God has for you.

BreatheCast: How do you feel about the state of metal/hardcore today, do you feel it is growing in the independent/underground scene or dying?
CYE:I think the cliques among hardcore kids are killing the scene. They think they're too cool to rep a certain band, thinking the band is not deserving enough of their attention. They're too cool to get in the pit with everyone. They have created a division in the scene that once promoted love and unity. The scene is still alive, but it's definitely dying. 

BreatheCast: If you could collaborate with one Secular Artist and one Christian Artist, who would you choose?
CYE: On the secular side, I would have to choose Deftones or Limp Bizkit. I love the nu-metal sound, so much feeling, and of course, great musicianship. On the Christian side, I think it would be cool to work with Blindside. They're incredible musicians and I've always been a fan. It's not too watered down, like a lot of the contemporary Christian artists out there.

BreatheCast: What are 3 essential snacks that you guys have to have on the road? 
CYE: My top three would definitely have to be Cliff bars (chocolate chip only) Cheez-Its (the more the better) and peanut M&Ms (preferably family size). Unfortunately, everything is up for grabs in our chariot so a stockpile hiding place is very necessary.

BreatheCast: Do you have a current scripture that has been speaking to you or a favorite book you have been reading?
CYE:I've always loved the book of proverbs. Its focus on wisdom, as well as its eloquent poetic writing style, has always drawn me in. 

BreatheCast: What are your touring plans for this Fall 2013?
CYE: We're touring with our label-mates Islander right now, so catch us on the road and come say hi!