From local purist to global advocate: my evolving view on indie music communities
I used to firmly believe that the heart of indie music resided solely in physical local scenes, like basement shows and record store gatherings. Over the years, I dismissed online communities as impersonal and detached from the raw energy of live performance. However, during the pandemic lockdowns, I was forced to engage with digital spaces, attending virtual concerts and participating in forum discussions. Witnessing artists from disparate locations collaborate seamlessly through platforms like Discord changed my outlook. I realized these online networks foster creativity and support that can transcend geographical limits. Now, I see that a hybrid model, where local intimacy complements global reach, strengthens the indie ecosystem overall. This shift has allowed me to discover incredible musicians I would have never encountered otherwise. It's a reminder that adaptation, not purism, often sustains artistic movements.