Peter Stroud on Close Enemies, Creative Freedom, and the Drive of Bandmate Tom Hamilton

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For Episode 136 of the Rock Interview Series, I sat down with guitarist Peter Stroud of the rising rock super‑group Close Enemies. This is my third feature on the band this year, and their momentum shows no signs of slowing. With Tom Hamilton of Aerosmith on bass, Tony Brock of The Babys on drums, Trace Foster on guitar, Chasen Hampton on vocals, and Stroud completing the lineup, Close Enemies blends legacy musicianship with a fresh, modern edge.

One of the most compelling parts of our conversation centered on Hamilton’s role in the studio. Stroud described him as endlessly enthusiastic and creatively energized—qualities that continue to surprise even those who grew up idolizing him. Their collaboration began last year, with Hamilton bringing in early song ideas, including what became “More Than I Could Ever Need.” The track was largely formed when he arrived, but the band helped shape it, with Stroud crafting the guitar‑riff intro on the spot.

“Tom is musically inspired all the time,” Stroud said. “He listens to new artists constantly. And when we say, ‘Let’s rehearse for two days,’ he’ll say, ‘How about five?’ He pushes us to keep going.”

That passion reflects the band’s philosophy: low stress, full creativity, and no idea dismissed until it’s fully explored. For Stroud, playing alongside musicians he admired as a teenager—Brock’s thunderous drumming and Hamilton’s iconic Aerosmith work—still feels surreal.

Close Enemies is also gearing up for a busy start to the year. The band plans to record their January 3rd show at the Whisky a Go Go for a potential Record Store Day live release, and they’ll launch an 11‑date headlining tour beginning January 2nd. Close Enemies will be releasing their debut record in March of 2026.

With new music on the way and a live show that elevates their material even further, Close Enemies is proving that great musicians don’t slow down—they evolve.

Full Interview below