A Rock Icon Reinvents Himself with Close Enemies
After decades of rocking stadiums as Aerosmith’s bassist, Tom Hamilton is charging into a new chapter. His band, Close Enemies, is gearing up for the release of their second single, “Inside Out,” dropping February 28 via TLG|ROCK.
The band, which made waves with their debut track, “Sound of a Train,” is proving to be more than just a side project. With a star-studded lineup and a growing fanbase, Close Enemies is ready to take on the world—and they’ve got the backing of TKO booking agency to help make it happen.
Meet the Rock and Roll Powerhouse Behind Close Enemies
Close Enemies isn’t just any new band—it’s a supergroup of seasoned rock veterans.
- Tom Hamilton (Bass) – Legendary Aerosmith bassist, stepping into a new musical era.
- Trace Foster (Guitar) – Hamilton’s longtime bass tech and Close Enemies’ driving force.
- Peter Stroud (Guitar) – A longtime guitarist for Sheryl Crow with over 25 years in the industry.
- Tony Brock (Drums) – Formerly of The Babys and Rod Stewart’s band for over a decade.
- Chasen Hampton (Vocals) – A gifted singer with roots in Oklahoma’s country music scene.
- Gary Stier (Lyricist) – A talented songwriter helping shape Close Enemies’ sound.
Hamilton describes Hampton’s vocals as the missing piece that brings their songs to life, calling him “a gifted singer” who transforms their sound into something truly special.
Breaking Into the Rock Scene with a Chart-Topping Start
Close Enemies made their live debut on October 11, 2024, at Eastside Bowl in Nashville, Tennessee, marking the beginning of what’s shaping up to be a powerful new force in rock music.
Their first single, “Sound of a Train,” released on January 17, 2025, was met with overwhelming praise from both fans and the press. With a successful run of live dates, they quickly gained traction, proving that this isn’t just another side project—it’s a band with serious staying power.
With the release of “Inside Out” on the horizon, Close Enemies is set to make an even bigger impact.
Teaming Up with TKO Booking to Hit the Road
Close Enemies has also secured a deal with The Kirby Organization (TKO) booking agency, a major step in expanding their reach to global audiences.
Hamilton expressed his excitement, saying:
“Looking forward to TKO helping get our band out in front of the fans.”
Foster added:
“With TKO in our corner, we’re now ready to take on the world. Jim Lenz and all at TKO are top notch and we’re in great hands.”
Hampton echoed the sentiment:
“From the start, Close Enemies has focused on making great music, and it continues to bring the right people into our corner. We’re thrilled to team up with TKO and can’t wait to hit the road again, keeping rock and roll alive and strong into the future.”
Jim Lenz of TKO also chimed in, sharing:
“I’m honored to be working with this group of veteran musicians who have a catalog of great music and are putting out great new music! Our team at The Kirby Organization is looking forward to helping Close Enemies make close friends and fans on the road this year!”
How Close Enemies Came Together
In a recent interview, guitarist Peter Stroud shared how Close Enemies formed, describing it as a layered process that began over two years ago. The band started taking shape when Hamilton mentioned having a collection of songs he wanted to bring to life.
Foster recalled the moment he realized Close Enemies had to happen:
“I literally went, ‘Man, we really gotta do something.’ And then I just looked at Tom, and it was one of those moments where you go, ‘This is the guy. He’s asking for some help.’ I just walked up and said, ‘Hey, we’re gonna come to Boston and work on your songs.’”
Hamilton took some time to think it over, but then made a decisive move:
“I think that’s a really good idea.”
The band quickly gelled in the studio, and from that moment on, Close Enemies was no longer just an idea—it was a reality.
What’s Next for Close Enemies?
With “Inside Out” set for release and a global tour in the works, Close Enemies is proving to be a band to watch in 2025.
As Aerosmith officially stepped away from touring, Hamilton has embraced this new chapter—one filled with raw, powerful rock music and a fresh sense of creative freedom.
Fans eager to see what’s next can catch Close Enemies on tour later this year—and if their early success is any indication, this is only the beginning.
“Inside Out” drops February 28. Get ready to crank it up.
