Sarasota’s New Encore Live Rocked with Supergroup Close Enemies

It was a Sunday night at the new Encore Live, but you wouldn’t know it by the crowd that came out to see one of rock’s greatest bass players Tom Hamilton from Aerosmith and his new band, “Close Enemies.” Not only was there rock royalty on the stage, but there were some in the house as well. Aerosmith guitarist and Sarasota resident Joe Perry came to support his bandmate and friend, along with another SRQ resident, Jimmie Fadden, an original member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, who sat with Joe at Encore Live’s VIP section. Collective Soul’s lead singer Ed Roland was in attendance as well as rock band Disturbed guitarist Dan Donegan. Sarasota’s own Duane Betts, and his wife Lisa came to rock. Local musician Dana Lawrence of Kettle of Fish and Mark Borgmeyer of the heavy metal band Crimson Glory were also checking out the show. The opening act was local band Soundwall Jackson, Al Donadi, Steve Apostoli, and Bobby Schneck, who had a good, groove sound happening.  Everyone in attendance fell in love with the new Encore Live.

For those of you who are not familiar with this great, new band,  Close Enemies, here are a few stats on these musicians. Of course, not only are you getting Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Aerosmith’s Tom Hamilton in this band but players who are seasoned pros and have played with some of rock’s greatest musicians. On the drums is an original member of The Baby’s Tony Burke! When Tony left The Babys, he toured with Rod Stewart for over 12 years. He has recorded with Roy Orbison and Jeff Beck among others. Peter Stroud is currently the musical director and guitarist for Sheryl Crow. He has also toured with Don Henley, Stevie Nicks, and Collective Soul. Guitarist Trace Foster has worked with Angus Young of AC/DC, the Joe Perry Project and Cheap Trick. Last but not least is singer/songwriter Chasen Hampton, who has some great chops and who started out as a child star on the Disney Channel’s Mickey Mouse Club. He has worked with some of today’s most famous chart toppers including Dr. Dre, Justin Timberlake, and Pharrell. Check out their website for more at www.closeenemiestheband.com

Opening the show with an original called “Rain”, the band sounded stellar.  The setlist was a mix of Enemies originals and Babys covers that included “Midnight Rendezvous.” Aerosmith covers included hearing Tom’s iconic bass line with the mega hit “Sweet Emotion.”  The entire crowd was singing along.  The band played Aero’s “Seasons of Wither” with Peter Stroud handling Joe Perry’s guitar solo with Joe in the room.  A nervous moment for any guitarist no doubt, but he killed it.  Tony Burke blasted the room with an amazing drum solo. This is a not-to-miss show for diehard rock fans.

I was able to get a short, fun interview with Close Enemies!

Questions for Tom: Who had the idea for this band? Was it thought of before or after Aero retired?

Trace, Tony, Peter, and Gary Stier had been working together during the period when Aerosmith was getting ready for our farewell “Peace Out” Tour.  When the tour had to be cancelled due to Steven’s injury, I found myself with time on my hands.  I played with Trace and the guys some time before that and had a good time.  Now that I was looking for something to do, Trace called and asked if I’d like to come down to Atlanta and hear what they were up to.

I heard some of the songs they’d written and jumped in. All we needed was a singer.  We tried some people, and then a friend of mine suggested we try out Chasen Hampton.  We were knocked out!  We had a band. 

2. What is your fav Aero song to play?  Obviously, I like to play “Sweet Emotion” but “Livin’ On The Edge” runs a close second.

3. Tom, will you and the members of Aero collaborate on future projects? There aren’t any plans afoot at the moment, but if something comes up, I’m ready! 

4. Did you work with Yungblud during the recording of the EP? The Aerosmith/ Yungblud EP is mostly Steven and Joe.  “Back in the Saddle” is on the record, so my bass track is there.

Question for Trace: Trace, being a guitar tech for Joe Perry, AC/DC, among others, how is it now to be in front of the audience as a co-founder of this band?

Trace: I’ve actually been playing in bands my whole life. So, this is not really anything new.

I actually used to play on stage with Joe Perry during his solo shows back in the mid 2000s.

But playing with this caliber of guys is a treat and something that I definitely appreciate every time we get together!

Question for Tony: Tony, being a founding member of The Babys, drummer for Rod, Jeff Beck, and others, what made you want to join this band?

Tony: The first outstanding thing was to be part of a serious adventure with Peter Stroud. I knew we would be the groove brothers from hell! Little did I know I would end up with a band of brothers! The musicianship was so inspiring that my younger years came back!!

Question for Peter: This is certainly a super group of musicians. Has it been easy to collaborate and get this band started?

Peter: It’s easy for me, because we all gather at my house! The creative collaboration came easily because everyone’s ideas are on the table and explored. That has enabled the songs to pour out of us. When we’re together, we get at least one or two songs a day started and demoed. From there, everyone can continue working on them at home until the songs are fleshed out and complete. Technology is definitely our friend.

Vicky Sullivan Photos for The Suncoast Post