Close Enemies Make Their Stone Pony Debut
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Aerosmith bassist Tom Hamilton, brought Close Enemies to the Jersey Shore last week as they played the legendary Stone Pony. This is Hamilton’s first high-profile project on his own, and the band is loaded with talent. Members include Peter Stroud (guitarist and MD for Sheryl Crow), Tony Brock (drummer for The Babys who has also accompanied artists like Rod Stewart and Roy Orbison), Trace Foster (who has worked with Mick Jagger, Melissa Etheridge, and Cheap Trick), and Chasen Hampton (a 35+ year veteran who has worked with Dr. Dre, Pharrell, Little Richard, and Elton John).
The hard rock band was formed in 2023 while Aerosmith was sidelined by Steven Tyler’s health. This year has seen the release of five songs so far and they are in the midst of a small tour of the East Coast. The Pony was the second stop of this run, and Hamilton and company gave a solid performance. Close Enemies has a traditional rock and roll sound that showcases the talent of its members. In addition to originals such as “Rain” and “Sweet Baby Jesus”, they threw in Aerosmith tunes “Sweet Emotion” and “Sick as a Dog” along with “Midnight Rendezvous” and “Head First” by The Babys.
Close Enemies wraps up their year with shows in Massachusetts and Maryland this weekend, but are starting to add dates for 2026. And as always, be sure to check them out wherever you stream your music.
Coverage from October 3, 2025 at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ.
All photos are © Michael Campanile Photography and cannot be used without permission.
