Milk It Too!
As we consider the contributions of alternative/pop music critics such as Chicago-based Jim DeRogatis, it is fun to look around at what is now a worldwide indie/alternative passion that crosses cultures. In DeRogatis’ book, "Milk It!" (De Capo Press 2003) the alternative decade of the 1990s got excellent exposure, with the help of DeRogatis’ practiced eye.
In addition to his focus on U.S. alternative and independent-label music, he reached out to understand the British music scene, along with that of some European countries. Now, more than 10 years on, the indie music/alternative music scene is literally world-class. According to www.indiedontdance.blogspot.com , the record label, Tag Team Records, is leading the way in promoting Chinese indie bands.
Some of the key words in the Tag Team Records mission statement: unlikely locations, broaden the scope, culturally relevant. To experienced music industry observers this is a noble cause, of course, and a necessary cause. Tag Team and some of the indie music bloggers have taken up the torch, trying to spread the word about "like-minded" musicians from China, Norway and Holland. The indie music scene in China is small but growing, according to those who know. One of the keys to enjoying indie music from another location on the planet: Be prepared to enjoy the different flavor and atmosphere of the music. Understanding lyrics may have to come later.
Tags: indie, independent music, indie music, music
Glad to see that other places are trying to focus on independent labels and alternatives to the commercial music scene. I have seen what it has done for American music over the last decade and a half and think that it is about time that others started putting it out there more for people. When you keep it bottled up people miss out on good music.