Visimo!

I have used numerous search engines, but when it comes to finding something specific and you do not want to be cluttered by advertisements use Visimo.

In the left hand panel there are even sub-categories that, for example, have a pull down menu of found blogs.


Here I was able to find a range of message boards, news sites, blogs...and the list goes on.

Trying to find a balance between alternative (i.e. not mainstream) sites, yet the most comprehensive for sources, I found-after much trawling-these links...here it goes...

• OuterSound: A top class website that promotes the independent music community, with reviews, feature stories, how-to articles, industry databases and band sites. In addition there are great links and give much opportunity for unsigned bands to promote their work.
• The Ink Blot: although needs desperately updating, hope the writer hasn't died, this is a very well set up blog. Found the link from the previous website and enjoyed reading the reviews especially. This person would make a great contact as their historical knowledge of Indie and rock is superb, as long as they aint dead that is.
• Topix.net is essentially a news website; however their music content is very well maintained. What I like most is the fact the website is split up into different genres of music, each having different lead stories. Additionally, where other fails, this news site is not too obsessed with American artists and a comprehensive set of links are provided. Audience interaction is also encouraged; you can post your thoughts in the forum or submit a thorough article on a subject of your choice.
• skwik.com sounds very interesting, not only can you listen to broadcasts of Indie music through their network of podcasters, RSS and p2p bittorents. Skwik.com is open content - you can edit the information yourself! The flaw? I can't get onto it!
• SoYouWanna.com - I really like this website! This is an amusing site that gives instructions on how to fake 'being an Indie rock expert'. While it does poke fun at this genre, it contains many great links throughout the article.

"Indie fans often come across as if they belong to some sort of secret society, frowning upon all those poor, ignorant souls who just don't "get it" when it comes to music. Lies. We're here to tell you that you too can be a hipster. By learning the basics of what the Indie phenomenon is all about, you should be well on your way to passing yourself off as a die-hard fan."