Close The Hatch

http://wvrockscene.blogspot.com/2011/11/q-wstephen-barton-of-close-hatch_18.html - WV

http://wvrockscene.blogspot.com/2011/11/q-wstephen-barton-of-close-hatch_18.html - WV

December 8, 2011
Fuck Your Scenes Interview: Close the Hatch



I was approached not too long ago about setting up an interview with Dayton, Ohio’s Close the Hatch and I couldn’t be happier to reveal our interview with the band today! Close the Hatch are a self-proclaimed “experimental-metal/shoe-gaze” band who just got done supporting Mastodon and The Dillinger Escape Plan, so they’re only on the heels of making a name for themselves in the industry. Be sure to read up our interview below, and pick up their debut EP for free here!
Can you state your name/role in Close the Hatch?

Stephen Barton: I do guitar, vocals, and programming.

Dan Malloy: Drums!

JP Morris: I play guitar, keys, and synth.

Can you give a background on how the band came together?

Malloy: This project actually stemmed from another project Stephen, JP and I were all a part of. I think there was a desire to move in a more ambient/less structured direction, while bringing a strong theatrical element into the mix as well.

For those who do not know your band, how would you describe your sound?

Barton: Wikipedia would probably classify us as post-metal. But, its basically experimental metal/shoe gaze.


How would you say you standout in your local scene?

Morris: Probably our live show.
Malloy: Original music in dayton typically takes on either the hip-hop flavor, or the mainstream hardcore/thrash flavor. I think personally that we take a more musical approach, integrating dynamic change. We also definitely look different on stage than anyone I’ve seen in the area.
What was it like recording your debut EP? Was it hard to choose which songs to put on the EP?

Malloy: We’ve had a lot of fun trying to lay down all the tracks for the EP, and have been working on several other songs in the studio as well. It is difficult to choose which songs will fit on the EP, and with other projects we have in mind, because we are currently writing, and there is already a pool of a dozen plus songs that Steve has written.

Morris: It was really fun and pretty easy at the same time.
The EP hasn’t been out for a month now, but is there anything you’d do differently looking back at the process of writing/recording the EP?

Malloy: Overall, I think we’re pretty happy, but having more time to add new ideas, or change small things is always nice. Our timeframe was pretty short on this EP.

What would you say has been the biggest obstacle for the band so far?

Barton: Lack of free time and money & starting from scratch building a new project in the current state of the music industry.


What achievement in the band’s history are you most proud of?

Malloy: So far, I think opening for Mastodon and Dillinger Escape Plan has been a huge moment for all of us.
How was that experience for you guys?

Malloy: It was an amazing experience, and a dream come true. We are so grateful for that opportunity, and will never forget the experience.

What are the band’s upcoming plans?

Morris: Writing,recording and more shows!

Barton:Releasing some splits with other artists who are with us on Red Moth Records. Then we’ll be getting back on the road and pushing forward with the positive momentum we have built so far.



Thanks for your time! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Malloy: Thank you so much for taking the time to work with us. We want to also thank all of our fans and supporters. We couldn’t do this without you help and support. Make sure to get our free EP at www.closethehatch.com!

Done by Logan White

- Logan White/FYS

Close The Hatch
Music Review by Ced 1

If I had to think of one word to describe the band, Close The Hatch, I would have to say, “abstract metal.” But wait a minute! That’s two words! Well, it’s because there is a method to their madness. This particular brand of metal has more of an ethereal feel to it. CTH takes your mind into melodic places that you never knew existed.

It took me a few listens to truly get that Close The Hatch wants to expand and evolve their sound. The slow, heavy rhythms are just the beginning.

My personal favorite is "Manna Feeder", which has some of the most awesome transitions that I’ve ever heard in a song. It definitely takes metal to the next level. With other songs on their EP, like “For The Queen”, “Sylvia”, and “CCC-CCC-CC”, Close The Hatch will be a major part of Post-Metal evolution in the way that Stone Temple Pilots evolved Alternative Rock. They only left me wanting a slightly higher level on the lead vocals. But we will just have to wait and see what they give us on the album release.






- Independent Music & Media

Close The Hatch
Music Review by Ced 1

If I had to think of one word to describe the band, Close The Hatch, I would have to say, “abstract metal.” But wait a minute! That’s two words! Well, it’s because there is a method to their madness. This particular brand of metal has more of an ethereal feel to it. CTH takes your mind into melodic places that you never knew existed.

It took me a few listens to truly get that Close The Hatch wants to expand and evolve their sound. The slow, heavy rhythms are just the beginning.

My personal favorite is "Manna Feeder", which has some of the most awesome transitions that I’ve ever heard in a song. It definitely takes metal to the next level. With other songs on their EP, like “For The Queen”, “Sylvia”, and “CCC-CCC-CC”, Close The Hatch will be a major part of Post-Metal evolution in the way that Stone Temple Pilots evolved Alternative Rock. They only left me wanting a slightly higher level on the lead vocals. But we will just have to wait and see what they give us on the album release.






- Independent Music & Media