The end of Aerosmith’s storied touring career came earlier than expected after Steven Tyler’s vocal cord injury forced the band to cancel their highly anticipated Peace Out farewell tour. While only three shows were performed in September 2023, the Boston rock legends left an indelible impression, proving they were still at the top of their game.
“By the time we got to those first few shows, we were really at the top of our game,” bassist Tom Hamilton told UCR in a recent interview. “We worked so hard on the production, the set list, and especially rehearsing… It was a blast. It was really awesome.”
The End of Touring, But Not the Music
Hamilton acknowledged earlier this year that the future of Aerosmith won’t include touring, but he and his bandmates are still eager to create music.
“It will manifest itself in ways that we haven’t planned yet,” he shared. “Right now, the amenity I most want is more music and more time with family.”
Hamilton has kept true to his word, focusing his energy on a new project: his band, Close Enemies.
Introducing Close Enemies
Close Enemies is a powerhouse ensemble featuring Hamilton on bass, alongside guitarists Trace Foster and Peter Stroud, drummer Tony Brock, and singer Chasen Hampton. The group made their live debut in October 2023 with a performance in Nashville.
“I was a little bit nervous,” Hamilton admitted. “But that feeling energizes you. It makes you want to dive in deeper and deeper.”
The bassist likened the experience to Aerosmith’s early days:
“This is like going back to the beginning… We don’t have any previous albums. We’re going to be riding around in vans, probably flying commercial, just like when Aerosmith started — and I’m looking forward to that.”
First Tour and New Music
Close Enemies will embark on their first official tour starting Jan. 8 in Philadelphia, with additional dates to follow. Fans can also expect new music, with the band’s debut single arriving in January through TLG / Virgin Music Group.
Hamilton expressed excitement about the upcoming releases, promising a series of songs that will build the band’s identity and showcase their collective talent.
“We have a bunch of really good songs, and we hope to be putting them out soon and hopefully doing some gigs,” Hamilton said.
A New Chapter for a Rock Legend
Though Aerosmith’s touring days are over, Tom Hamilton is finding new life in the music world with Close Enemies. The transition represents a return to his roots, embracing the challenges and camaraderie of a fresh start.
As Hamilton and his new band prepare to hit the road, fans of Aerosmith and rock music alike have something exciting to look forward to in this next chapter of the bassist’s career.
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