Der Kommissar

"Der Kommissar" by After The Fire is a fascinating record with an interesting history and impact. Initially, the song wasn't an original composition by After The Fire. It was a cover of the song by Austrian musician Falco, which was a hit in German-speaking countries. Falco's original version was released in 1981 and stood out because of its catchy melody and rap-infused verses, which were quite innovative at the time.

After The Fire's English cover version was released in 1982, and it managed to break into the US market quite successfully. Despite being a British band, After The Fire's cover became more popular in America than it did back home in the UK. This peculiar success underscored the song's universal appeal, largely thanks to its infectious energy and the burgeoning interest in New Wave music during that period.

Interestingly, After The Fire added their unique twist to the song, maintaining its lively spirit but updating some of the lyrics for an English-speaking audience. The song's narrative about a mysterious and possibly corrupt official, "Der Kommissar" (which translates to "The Commissioner"), captivated listeners with its mysterious overtones, and its themes remain relevant in different contexts even today.

Ironically, After The Fire would disband shortly after the success of "Der Kommissar." The band split in 1982, the same year their biggest hit was climbing the charts, making their story a classic tale of fleeting fame in the music industry. Nonetheless, "Der Kommissar" remains a defining piece of their legacy and a beloved classic in the New Wave genre.