Parkway Drive's debut EP, "Don't Close Your Eyes," is a raw and powerful introduction to the Australian metalcore scene, released on June 1, 2004. This intense collection of tracks showcases the band's early sound, blending aggressive metalcore with elements of deathcore, setting the stage for their future successes. The original EP features eight high-energy songs, including standout tracks like "Smoke 'Em If Ya Got 'Em" and "Hollow Man," which were later re-recorded for subsequent releases.
The expanded version of "Don't Close Your Eyes" includes six bonus tracks, pulled from Parkway Drive's split album with I Killed the Prom Queen and various compilation albums. This reissue provides a comprehensive look at the band's early material, offering fans a deeper dive into their formative years. The EP was initially released on CD and later reissued on vinyl in 2023, making it accessible to both longtime fans and new listeners. With a total of 14 tracks and a runtime of 45 minutes, this EP is a essential listen for anyone interested in the evolution of metalcore.