Frank Hannon, co-founder and lead guitarist of the hard rock band TESLA, has released a new music video for his instrumental track “San Francisco.” The song taps into a deeper improvisational lineage Frank has long been part of -– a side of his playing that has often lived just outside the spotlight of his arena-rock success and highlights a more exploratory guitar voice that many listeners may not immediately associate with him.
“San Francisco” is the latest single from his new, country-western infused instrumental album, Reflections. The video features original, hand-played oil-light visuals from Brotherhood of Light Show artist Chris Samardizch, directly connecting the project to the Fillmore-era psychedelic tradition that helped shape the Bay Area jam scene.
While Frank is widely known for his arena-rock legacy, another side of his story has always leaned toward improvisation and the communal Bay Area tradition. Hisfather-in-law was Dickey Betts, and that melodic, exploratory sensibility runs through his phrasing. He has sat in multiple times with moe. and built a close musical bond with members of the Allman Betts family, earning credibility in rooms where his metal reputation initially raised eyebrows. Growing up in Northern California, the influence of Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, and Santana shaped how he approaches harmony and feel on the guitar.
That spirit is front and center on Reflections, an instrumental album that feels like a natural evolution for him. Recorded as raw first takes with an emphasis on touch and emotional arc, it captures instinct over polish. “San Francisco” was tracked as an open-ended jam, beginning with live bass and expanded through one-take guitar overdubs, moving from psychedelic textures into a flamenco-inspired bridge.
Frank first connected with Samardizch at the Fillmore while performing with Devon Allman and Duane Betts, making the collaboration feel rooted in shared history. The Brotherhood of Light Show lineage traces back to the Summer of Love, the Monterey Pop Festival, and decades at the Fillmore Auditorium.
"From the first shimmering notes, Hannon invites the listener into a world where melody speaks louder than words. The album flows like a lived‑in diary: tender, contemplative, and unafraid to linger in the quiet spaces where truth lives. His guitar tone is warm and human, almost vocal in its phrasing, carrying the weight of memory and the lightness of hope in the same breath.
What makes Reflections so powerful is its restraint. Hannon doesn’t chase speed or flash — he chases feeling, and he captures it with stunning clarity. Each track paints a landscape: dusty Americana horizons, candlelit rooms, wide‑open skies. You can hear the years in his hands, the wisdom in his choices, the peace in his pauses."
"It’s an album that doesn’t demand attention — it earns it. It doesn’t shout — it glows. It doesn’t try to impress — it connects."
"A beautiful, heartfelt instrumental journey from an artist who continues to evolve while staying true to his soul. Five stars, without hesitation."
Six String Soldiers (2012, with Frank Hannon Band)
World Peace (unknown release date)
From One Place to Another, Vol. 1 & 2 (unknown release dates)
Reflections (2025)
FRANK HANNON
APPEARS
MARCH 12TH 2026
ON INTERVIEWING THE LEGENDS
WITH RAY SHASHO
RAY'S NEW NOVEL
'THE LIBERTY CODE'
The Liberty Code is a thrilling blend of science fiction, political intrigue, and military strategy. With its compelling characters, intricate plot, and timely themes, this novel offers a captivating journey through a world where the line between fiction and reality blurs. It's a must-read for fans of dystopian futures, extraterrestrial encounters, and high-stakes political drama.
Are you ready to decode the secrets of The Liberty Code and join the fight for Earth's future?
LIBERTY CODE TEASER
AVAILABLE
NOW!
RAY'S INCREDIBLE NEW
POLITICAL THRILLER
SCI-FI BOOK!
THE
LIBERTY
CODE
In a near-future America, where democracy has collapsed under the iron grip of the Commonwealth Party, redemption lies in the unlikeliest of places—a novel. The Liberty Code, penned by decorated Marine veteran and journalist Sam Edwards, uncovers the hidden truths of a dystopian world teetering on the edge of annihilation.
Guided by telepathic messages from two Centauri extraterrestrial ambassadors, J-Rod and Naxia, who secretly collaborate with the U.S. Air Force, Edwards reveals a master plan to save Earth. This gripping tale begins as fiction but evolves into a stark reality, reflecting real-world geopolitical conflicts and revolutionary military operations.
OFFICIAL TRAILER
A WARNING ABOUT THE LIBERTY CODE BY THE CENTAURIANS
Sarasota’s brand‑new Encore Live nightclub didn’t just host a concert on Sunday night — it hosted a seismic event. Close Enemies, the newly formed all‑star rock collective, delivered a blistering, high‑octane performance that left the packed house buzzing long after the final notes faded. For a venue still finding its identity, this show felt like a christening by fire.
“Close Enemies proved they’re not a side project — they’re a force.”
“Close Enemies didn’t just play Sarasota — they detonated it.”
The show kicked off promptly at 9 p.m. with “Rain,” a moody, atmospheric opener that set the tone for a night built on dynamics — thunderous peaks, soulful valleys, and everything in between. From there, Close Enemies wasted no time showcasing their original material. “Sound of a Train,” “Inside Out,” and “Sweet Baby Jesus” revealed a band with a clear identity: muscular rock grooves anchored by Hamilton’s melodic bass lines, Brock’s thunderous precision, and Stroud and Foster’s interlocking guitars that alternated between grit and grace.
“When Tom Hamilton locks in with Tony Brock, you’re hearing rock history
breathing in real time.”
Hampton, meanwhile, proved to be the band’s secret weapon. His voice soared, cracked, whispered, and roared — whatever the moment demanded, he delivered. On “Take a Pill” and “More Than I Could Ever Need,” he commanded the stage with the confidence of a frontman who knows he belongs in the same room as legends.
Chasen Hampton didn’t just front the band — he owned the room.”
The night’s first major eruption came with “Midnight Rendezvous,” a nod to Brock’s tenure with The Babys. The crowd recognized the opening riff instantly, and Brock — smiling like a man revisiting an old friend — drove the song with the swagger only he can summon.
Close Enemies also proved fearless in their future classic “Battlefield” a surprise highlight. Later, “Seasons of Wither” showcased Hamilton’s deep connection to the Aerosmith catalog, with the band delivering a haunting, faithful rendition that drew one of the night’s loudest ovations.
Originals like “Wink & a Feather” kept the momentum high, each one revealing a different facet of the band’s chemistry — from blues‑tinged grit to soaring melodic rock.
But the closing stretch is where Close Enemies truly detonated. “Sick as a Dog” and “Sweet Emotion” turned the room into a full‑throttle celebration of Hamilton’s legacy, with the audience singing every word. The encore‑style finale — a drum solo leading into “Head First” — was a masterclass in showmanship. Brock’s solo was explosive without ever becoming indulgent, and when the band crashed into the final song, the room felt like it might lift off its foundation.
Peter Stroud delivered a spellbinding performance, his lead guitar work holding the Encore Live audience in absolute silence. Long admired by fellow musicians, Stroud deserves far wider recognition as one of the most expressive and technically gifted guitarists of his generation. It’s time for music journalists to elevate his standing among the all‑time greats.
Trace Foster, the band’s second guitarist, is the definition of a pure, instinctive musician. His years onstage with Angus Young (AC/DC), Ronnie Wood (Rolling Stones), and Joe Perry (Aerosmith) have shaped a player whose tone, timing, and touch place him firmly among the industry’s elite.
By the end of the night, one thing was unmistakably clear: Close Enemies aren’t a novelty supergroup or a nostalgic side project. They’re a real band — tight, inspired, and hungry. Sarasota witnessed something special: the birth of a powerhouse.
If this show is any indication, Close Enemies won’t be playing intimate clubs for long. They’re built for bigger rooms, bigger crowds, and bigger moments. And after Sunday night, Sarasota will be able to say it saw the spark before the wildfire.
The evening was also visited by rock icons Joe Perry, the lead guitarist for Aerosmith, Duane Betts of The Allman Betts Band, Dan Donegan of Disturbed, Jimmy Fadden of The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, and Ed Roland lead singer of Collective Soul.
“For one night, Encore Live felt less like a venue and more like the center
of the rock‑and‑roll universe.”
Close Enemies debut album will be released on March 13th.
For more information
visit
https://closeenemiestheband.com/
It was a great night for all who attended and Sarasota has finally brought back live rock and roll to a local nightclub venue. Special thanks to everyone at Encore Live for a fantastic evening!
*Also special thanks to Shauna O'Donnell, Peter Stroud, Tricia,and the entire Close Enemies band.
CLOSE ENEMIES DEBUT ALBUM
OFFICIAL RELEASE MARCH 13TH
Here's my recent interview with Close Enemies
clisk below to watch the entire interview
Tony Brock, Chasen Hampton,Tom Hamilton, Sharon Shasho (my wife),Trace Foster,Ray Shasho,Peter Stroud... CLOSE ENEMIES
“Backstage they were humble; onstage they were unstoppable.”
The Liberty Code is a thrilling blend of science fiction, political intrigue, and military strategy. With its compelling characters, intricate plot, and timely themes, this novel offers a captivating journey through a world where the line between fiction and reality blurs. It's a must-read for fans of dystopian futures, extraterrestrial encounters, and high-stakes political drama.
Are you ready to decode the secrets of The Liberty Code and join the fight for Earth's future?
LIBERTY CODE TEASER
AVAILABLE
NOW!
RAY'S INCREDIBLE NEW
SCI-FI BOOK!
THE
LIBERTY
CODE
In a near-future America, where democracy has collapsed under the iron grip of the Commonwealth Party, redemption lies in the unlikeliest of places—a novel. The Liberty Code, penned by decorated Marine veteran and journalist Sam Edwards, uncovers the hidden truths of a dystopian world teetering on the edge of annihilation.
Guided by telepathic messages from two Centauri extraterrestrial ambassadors, J-Rod and Naxia, who secretly collaborate with the U.S. Air Force, Edwards reveals a master plan to save Earth. This gripping tale begins as fiction but evolves into a stark reality, reflecting real-world geopolitical conflicts and revolutionary military operations.
Close Enemies is an all-star rock band fronted by Aerosmith bassist Tom Hamilton, featuring drummer Tony Brock (The Babys), guitarists Peter Stroud (Sheryl Crow) and Trace Foster (AC/DC tech/Joe Perry), and vocalist Chasen Hampton. Close Enemies, featuring Aerosmith's Tom Hamilton, is releasing their self-titled debut album, "Close Enemies," on March 13, 2026, following singles like "Sound Of A Train," …"Inside Out," …"Sweet Baby Jesus,"… "Rain," … and "More Than I Could Ever Need…with pre-orders available for signed blue vinyl editions.
Watch for the debut album release
By
CLOSE ENEMIES
available March 13th
The signed album is limited to 200 copies, so act fast! But if you miss out, or don’t want to pay a premium for colored vinyl and autographs, a standard vinyl release, and CD, will be up for sale in March.
The Liberty Code is a thrilling blend of science fiction, political intrigue, and military strategy. With its compelling characters, intricate plot, and timely themes, this novel offers a captivating journey through a world where the line between fiction and reality blurs. It's a must-read for fans of dystopian futures, extraterrestrial encounters, and high-stakes political drama.
Are you ready to decode the secrets of The Liberty Code and join the fight for Earth's future?
LIBERTY CODE TEASER
AVAILABLE
NOW!
RAY'S INCREDIBLE NEW
SCI-FI BOOK!
THE
LIBERTY
CODE
In a near-future America, where democracy has collapsed under the iron grip of the Commonwealth Party, redemption lies in the unlikeliest of places—a novel. The Liberty Code, penned by decorated Marine veteran and journalist Sam Edwards, uncovers the hidden truths of a dystopian world teetering on the edge of annihilation.
Guided by telepathic messages from two Centauri extraterrestrial ambassadors, J-Rod and Naxia, who secretly collaborate with the U.S. Air Force, Edwards reveals a master plan to save Earth. This gripping tale begins as fiction but evolves into a stark reality, reflecting real-world geopolitical conflicts and revolutionary military operations.
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