A U.S. Army soldier is petitioning AVENGED SEVENFOLD for a chance to become the band’s next drummer. Having taught himself to play over the last eight years, Chris Hawkins made a video of himself playing a bunch of AVENGED SEVENFOLD tracks to help persuade the band.

Based out of Fort Drum in Jefferson County, N.Y., Hawkins is a member of the 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry, also known as the Triple Deuce. When Hawkins isn’t training at his post, he spends a lot of time playing drums. “It’s been kind of hard to play, being in the military and being busy, but I’ve somehow have always found a way to make time for it,” Hawkins tells WWNYTV.

AVENGED SEVENFOLD have issued a statement revealing that they have a new drummer in place after parting ways with Arin Ilejay earlier this year. However, in a new statement, they do praise Hawkins for his audition. 

Their statement reads as follows: “It has been brought to our attention that a lot of videos have been posted online from some pretty amazing drummers who want to try out for Avenged Sevenfold. While we appreciate the overwhelming interest and support we thought it would be the right thing to do to let everyone know that we already have someone. In fact, we have been working with this person for over a year now to make sure that it was a correct fit before making any sudden changes. When we have more to share we will be sure to do that. As for Mr. Chris Hawkins, you rule brother. We look forward to hearing about any future musical endeavors you may have. We appreciate the video and your service to our country. We will reach out and would love to meet with you when our paths cross next.”
 

Original AVENGED SEVENFOLD drummer The Rev passed away back in 2009. Since The Rev’s death, Mike Portnoy sat in for the band before Arin Ilejay manned the throne beginning in 2011. However, the band parted ways with Ilejay earlier this year, leaving their drum slot vacant.