Celebrating Warrant’s album “Cherry Pie” without focusing on the title track
my â with its 1990 follow-up, Cherry Pie. Buoyed by the albumâs insanely catchy, eponymous lead single, Warrant became the epitome of everything critics loved to hate about the genre: polished to a sheen, over-the-top sleazy, and with a penchant for lyrics that were as subtle as a sledgehammer. However, dismissing Warrant as nothing more than a relic of a bygone era overlooks the fact that the band had some serious musical chops underneath all that aqua net and spandex.
While Cherry Pie is often derided as a shallow, vapid effort, there’s actually quite a bit of musical diversity on display throughout the album. From the fierce guitar solos on tracks like “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” to the lush harmonies of “Love In Stereo,” the band showcases their range and musicianship far beyond the typical glam rock fare. The album also features some surprisingly introspective moments, such as the earnest ballad “I Saw Red,” which shows a vulnerability not often associated with the genre.
The album’s title track may be the most iconic, but it’s also the most misleading when it comes to understanding Warrant as a band. While “Cherry Pie” is undoubtedly a fun, catchy tune, it’s far from representative of the band’s true depth as musicians. The song’s simplistic lyrics and bubblegum aesthetic overshadow the more nuanced songwriting and musical talent present throughout the rest of the album.
Critics may have scoffed at Warrant’s image and lyrical content, but there’s no denying the band’s ability to write a memorable hook. Songs like “Sure Feels Good to Me” and “Blind Faith” are undeniably catchy and showcase the band’s knack for crafting infectious melodies. Despite the over-the-top production and sometimes cheesy lyrics, Warrant’s music has a timeless quality that still resonates with fans of the genre today.
In the end, Cherry Pie may not have the same critical acclaim as some of the era’s more revered albums, but it still holds a special place in the hearts of many rock fans. Warrant may have been easy to dismiss as just another hair metal band, but a closer listen to their music reveals a band that was more than just image and attitude. So next time you hear “Cherry Pie” on the radio, don’t just scoff and change the station. Take a moment to appreciate the musical talent and passion that went into creating one of the era’s most iconic albums.