That's the way to do it (IMO). I definitely don't branch out enough, but with my methods of listening to music, I prefer to delve as deeply into my favorite genre as far as possible. Thus, since I started listening to rock ("grunge" being my flavor of choice), I've only gotten into new grunge bands by more or less formal connections.

I started listening to Soundgarden. That naturally led to Nirvana, just because it was the most popular grunge and I was new to it. Kurt Cobain's favorite present day vocalist was Mark Lanegan (now my favorite artist). That got me into his band Screaming Trees. The drummer, Barret Martin also formed Tuatara, which included my now favorite saxophonist Skerik who I run a website for.

Without a doubt my favorite way to find new acts. And now that I think about it, that chain above leads me through a multitude of musical styles, especially when considering the other branches I didn't mention.

So basically, excepting a few groups, that's how I find all my new music. I love that method.

And yeah, Justin. I like looking at labels too. Sub Pop is the obvious one for me. SST and FastHorse being a couple others.


ps- I wouldn't try to use this website for classical composers. Apparently Mozart and Beethoven's work pales in popularity when it comes to "Music for Little People." Also, Wolfgang appears to have a direct connection to Raffi