Cherry Wine

Zoo Freaks, get ready for some sweet vibes as The Zoo Crew spins "Cherry Wine" by Love In Chains from their debut album Everyday Heroes! This track, the third on the album, stands out with its softer, melodic opening, driven by Mike Floros’ stellar acoustic guitar work. According to a review from KNAC.COM, Floros wrote "Cherry Wine" for his wife, infusing it with a sentimental touch that resonates through its recurring guitar motif. The song’s warm, late ‘80s hard rock feel, reminiscent of bands like Tangier, has been praised for its emotional depth, even winning over those who usually prefer heavier tracks. One reviewer noted its "folksy and rich" tone, making it a perfect fit for those reflective moments on THE ZOO’s airwaves.

Digging into the song’s reception, "Cherry Wine" has sparked some chatter among fans and critics. A post on MelodicRock.it highlighted its acoustic charm, comparing it to the soulful vibes of Tangier, while Rock-Garage.com called it a throwback to the end of the ‘80s hard rock era, packed with melody and power. Fans on Idora Entertainment’s Bandcamp page have raved about the album’s melodic rock finesse, with "Cherry Wine" often cited as a standout for its heartfelt lyrics and Floros’ guitar finesse. The track’s lack of keyboards, a signature of the album, puts the spotlight on Floros’ ability to craft a softer sound without losing the band’s hard rock edge, making it a fan favorite for those tuning into Love In Chains’s live sets.

Now, let’s rewind to how Love In Chains came to be. The band is a powerhouse trio led by guitarist Mike Floros, previously of SteelCity, and frontman Rob Kane, known for his work with Apocalyptic Lovers. Floros, a veteran of the melodic hard rock scene, has built a cult following with his riff-heavy style and tireless work ethic. Kane, whose vocals draw comparisons to Sebastian Bach and Kelly Hansen, brought his dynamic stage presence and fan-favorite status from Apocalyptic Lovers to the project. The duo, joined by Erik Johnson on drums and bass for the studio recordings, formed Love In Chains to channel their love for ‘80s hard rock into something fresh yet nostalgic. Their debut album Everyday Heroes, released in 2022 by Idora Entertainment, was a nod to bands like KISS, Ratt, and Hurricane, blending gritty riffs with catchy choruses.

The band’s journey kicked off when Floros and Kane, both respected in the melodic rock community, decided to team up for a new project. According to Sleaze Roxx, their shared passion for guitar-driven, harmony-laden rock made the collaboration a natural fit. To round out their live lineup, they recruited bassist Jason Cornwell, Floros’ SteelCity bandmate with global touring experience, and drummer Brian Karl, an emerging star from bands like Station. The result was a tight unit ready to bring Everyday Heroes to the stage, with select shows planned to connect with fans. Their music, described as “pure rock n roll” by fans on Bandcamp, has struck a chord with those who crave the raw energy of the ‘80s hard rock scene.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, you can follow Love In Chains on their official Facebook page, where they share updates on shows and new music. While the band doesn’t have an official standalone website, their label’s Idora Entertainment Bandcamp page is the go-to spot for grabbing Everyday Heroes on CD or digital download. They’re also active on Instagram, posting behind-the-scenes shots and fan shoutouts, and you can catch their latest news on X. For fan communities, check out the 80s Hard Rock Fans Facebook group, where Love In Chains gets plenty of love alongside other genre favorites. So, keep those dials locked on THE ZOO, and let "Cherry Wine" keep the good times rolling!