This week we look back at Commander Tom’s a groovy hit single “Attention”, a 2000 techno anthem that still stands as one of the German producer’s most popular tracks.
Born in Munich in 1971, Commander Tom (real name Tom Weyer) began his career as a resident DJ at the legendary Ultraschall club in his hometown in the early nineties. There, he honed his craft and developed his signature sound, which blended elements of techno, trance, and acid house into a unique and powerful sonic experience.
“Attention”—released in 2000—was one of Commander Tom’s biggest hits, reaching the top 10 on the German dance charts and earning him widespread recognition throughout Europe and beyond. The track’s relentless energy and futuristic soundscapes perfectly fit the era’s burgeoning rave culture. Its popularity helped cement Commander Tom’s status as one of the genre’s most innovative and exciting artists.
Despite its simplicity, “Attention” is an incredibly effective club track that has stood the test of time. The track’s stripped-down structure allows the beat and the synth line to shine, creating a hypnotic groove that is impossible to resist. The track features a mix of electronic and acoustic drums, with layers of hi-hats, claps, and cymbals, adding to the driving rhythm. As the beat builds, the percussion becomes more frenetic, creating a sense of tension that is only released when the track finally reaches its climax—the ultimate drop.
Following the success of “Attention,” Commander Tom continued to produce a string of acclaimed techno and trance singles, including “Are Am Eye?” and “Eye C Red,” both of which became significant club hits in the late nineties and early aughts. He also launched his record label, Noom Records, which became a significant force in the techno and trance scenes, releasing music from some of the genre’s most influential artists like Mandala, Nexus 6, Cores, Traumatic, Jim Clarke, and Nuclear Hyde.
Despite being over 20 years old, “Attention” remains a favorite of techno fans worldwide. The track’s driving beats, hypnotic synth lines, and sense of urgency make it a perfect fit for the club environment, where its relentless energy can be fully appreciated. “Attention” is a great starting point for those just discovering Commander Tom’s music, showcasing the German producer’s ability to create simple and influential music.
Whether you’re a die-hard techno fan or just looking for a high-energy dance track, the radio edit of Commander Tom’s “Attention” is sure to get you moving; it’s a slightly more condensed version of the original, but it still manages to capture the essence of what makes Commander Tom’s music so compelling. With its addictive beats and satisfying drops, “Attention” is the perfect track to get the dance floor moving and is a testament to techno music’s enduring power.
To hear this track and more of Commander Tom’s superlative discography, tune in to Nexus Radio.
