"Jerusalem" is third single from Alphaville's album Afternoons in Utopia. It is their seventh single overall, although it was only made available in Germany. It was released in November 1986.

Song development

In the liner notes for 1992's First Harvest 1984–92, band member Ricky Echollette had this to say about the song: "One day we were given the sketch for a theatre play, for which we were supposed to write the soundtrack. It's the story of a man, who at night convinces lonely passers-by on Brooklyn Bridge to commit suicide. He offers them as human sacrifices for his lover, who, years ago - because of him - committed suicide at the same location. In his frenzy he turns her into Eris, the Goddess of Revenge. Due to time problems, we were unable to pursue this project. But it was in that time, that 'Jerusalem' came to life." The song was recorded and mixed at Studio 54, Berlin, in September 1985.

Reviews

Overall, the song "Jerusalem" has been universally well received by critics. It was described as "the secret highlight" of the album Afternoons in Utopia, "with a wonderful chorus and an inspiring, just epic enough atmosphere." Another reviewer acknowledges that this song "is one of the most beautiful songs Alphaville has ever created." A third reviewer writes that it "reside(s) in the upper echelon of early-'80s synth pop" alongside fellow album track and subsequent single "Red Rose".

Track listings

The Nelson Highrise Sectors

This single contains the third of 4 songs that Alphaville have designated a "Nelson Highrise Sector:"

Charts

The song hit #57 in Germany, the only region in which the single was officially released.

Other releases

This song was released on a variety of other official Alphaville releases, including: