The City Winery in NYC crackled with anticipation as the crowd eagerly awaited New York’s debut performance of Close Enemies, a new band featuring Tom Hamilton of Aerosmith. With only a tantalizing glimpse of concert footage on YouTube, the show promised a thrilling journey into uncharted musical territory for fans ahead of the band’s anticipated studio album.
With the legendary Aerosmith officially hanging up their touring hats, fans realized that seeing Aerosmith members perform live again can only be possible through their various solo projects and bands. When Close Enemies announced in late 2024 their upcoming eight-show US tour, it sent shockwaves of excitement rippling through the rock music community.
As the band took the stage to massive cheers from the crowd, it was clear that Close Enemies had something special in store. The band features Tom Hamilton on bass, Trace Foster alongside Peter Stroud [Sheryl Crow and Don Henley] on guitars, Tony Brock [The Babys and Rod Stewart] on drums, and vocalist Chasen Hampton.
Starting the show with “Rain,” the band set the tone for their set and could do no wrong. Charismatic lead singer Chasen commanded immediate attention with his vocals and stage presence. At the same time, the rest of the group laid down tight, driving rhythms that propelled each song forward with unstoppable momentum. Music is energy, and Close Enemies brought fuel to the fire.
Trace and Peter displayed a level of synchronicity and cohesion that elevated each song, like on songs “Sound of a Train” and “Dry Rocket.” Their impressive guitar work and interplay were seamless, giving the songs the weight and momentum they deserved. They effortlessly wove their parts, playing off one another and meshing their distinct styles into a unified sonic front. Peter also highlighted his versatility on “Sweet Baby Jesus,” breaking out the slide to imbue his playing with a smooth, vocal-like tone. While they each possess unique approaches and specialties as guitarists, they complement each other perfectly, always working in service of the song and the band’s forceful yet nuanced sound.
Tony‘s powerful drumming locked into a deep, rhythmic groove, as Tom‘s signature bassline meshed perfectly with the band’s raw, unbridled sound. Tom anchors the band while his playing style and tone marries with the best interests of each song. With all ten fingers constantly moving for every beat and measure, the only way to describe his playing tonight was a marriage of fury and grace.
Together, they created a fresh yet familiar sound. Melody is this band’s secret weapon, permeating every song throughout their performance.
Tearing through one melodic song after another, Close Enemies played with the tightness that genuinely comes from the love of performing together, and their passion is contagious. This is rock n’ roll with deep blues and played with skill. Throughout the night, you could tell that the band was genuinely having fun performing and lavished on the applause of this NYC crowd. The band has everything anyone can ask with songs that are magically relatable.
The crowd hung on every note, riding the musical rollercoaster, not knowing what twist or turn might come next and excited to hear the band play two Aerosmith songs, “Sick as a Dog” and “Sweet Emotion,” two The Baby‘s songs “Midnight Rendezvous” and “Head First” for the encore! All four songs can hold up against any modern rock song and still sound exciting.
By the time the final notes were played, Tony‘s drumsticks had been reduced to splinters, the audience was on their feet cheering, and it was clear Close Enemies had arrived. They are a raucous, maximum-rock-infused quintet that explodes with rhythm and grittiness. The sustained energy and spontaneity between the band members throughout the evening shook the fans and the foundation of the City Winery to its core!
Close Enemies‘ tour is shaping up to be a must-see event for rock enthusiasts with a passion for Aerosmith, The Babys, and great rock n’ roll. The band will release their debut single, “Sound of a Train,” on January 17th and will be playing the remaining shows. Get tickets HERE.