Düsseldorf locals - Die Toten Hosen
You know you are becoming a local when you start following local bands - and if you're a local in the Rhineland you've got a great bunch of local bands to choose from. The little town of Düsseldorf is actually the birthplace of electronic music, having produced the world-renowned electro meisters - Kraftwerk. They're a reclusive bunch and don't have much to do with journos on the whole, but they have been known to frequent a Düsseldorf bike shop where journos and fans often lurk to catch a glimpse of the 70's electro pioneers. With Kraftwerk the music speaks for itself - it was never about band personalities. Not so the with Die Toten Hosen - lead singer Campino is a well known celebrity and sometime actor - and the band's drummer Vom Ritchie (who used to play with punk band "The Boys") is originally from the UK. They stay true to their Düsseldorf roots by putting on a Christmas or New Year concert in their hometown every year. This years' concerts will take place at the ISS Arena from the 19th to the 26th December - and tickets are going for around €100 - which gives you an idea of the calibre of the band. If you're into punk/rock or EMO - you'll like them. Give them a try and do your bit for local integration.
