dave valentine

I'm really into 90's alternative rock. I like reading stories about my favourite bands and how most of them started just as kids having fun or wanting to express themselves. They would start playing in clubs or whatever and would eventually start getting noticed. I'm wondering if that still happens nowadays, since the only 'new' rock that gets to my hears tends to give me very disappointing picture of what rock is considered to be these days - nothing special, nothing interesting... I only say this because i've got absolutely no clue on how to find those interesting bands, or some new sound i actually like. Basically all i see is mainstream music i cant relate to. It'd be fun if some people could share either some advice or opinion or some locations (clubs, bars, 'underground facilities') you think are cool or even some sound you found interesting.
Im feeling a little lost and don't really now where to start looking, so share all you want, it's welcome!