In February, the Hosen released "Friss oder stirb" (eat or die). This 12" was ideal for those who prefer the rougher sound of the Hosen; the lyrics comment on the current situation in Germany. And it came with another highlight: "Goodbye Garageland," an homage to the late Joe Strummer, legendary front man of English band The Clash.
Campino: "Joe Strummer was one of the true heroes, one who didn't need to toady to anyone; one who didn't adapt his style according to what was dictated by Zeitgeist. It was a lot of fun writing this track, especially because this was finally a chance for Vom to join in writing the lyrics."
In the spring, the Hosen announced their plans for the year 2004: first of all, after Whitsun, they set off for a little tour of Eastern Europe, including Sofia (Bulgaria), Belgrade (Serbia) and Zagreb (Croatia). Next in line are the big German festivals "Rock am Ring" and "Rock im Park;" and in October, the new album is scheduled for release.
In the meantime, there were other events that caused great joy: after three relegations since 1997 and dubious away matches in Düren, Bocholt or Kleve, Fortuna Düsseldorf finally managed to be promoted - at the beginning of May, they rose from 4th division (Oberliga) to 3rd division (Regionalliga). It goes without saying that the Hosen joined the crowds for the party in the sold-out Paul-Janes-Stadion. And they are now looking forward to 3rd division matches against teams such as Eintracht Braunschweig, Union Berlin and FC St. Pauli.
Come December, the Hosen will most certainly have little time for attending live football matches: this is when their big "Friss oder stirb"-Tour 2004/2005 starts, which once again will spread over several months!
Source: http://www.dietotenhosen.de/en/alldieganzenjahre_biographie_2004.php
