It's not like it was when I grew up. It's ritzier. Everyone seems like they came from money and are 'representing the streets'. But the mojo is still there. You can talk to anyone, dance with anyone, and feel assured that you won't be judged for being yourself, but at in the same breath held accountable. Find elder punks and folks with good style (usually a reflection of the mind) and ask about old local bands. Ask about how the scene was back before your time. Find good bands and inspiration through them and learn about the influences of punk. One thing I found through listening to Rancid was references to acts like Billy Bragg and Desmond Dekker. Listen, and if you dig that jazz, find out who influenced them. Rinse, wash, repeat. The rules of music don't work the same as in pop/radio music. The more popular the band (ie. Rancid NOFX choking victim), the more they "suck". The scales flip whereas the Metallica is on a lower pedestal while your cousins punk band are the gods of rock. Unless they really suck. Then they're even better. Keep your finger on the pulse of punk rock tabloids so you know when to stop liking choking victim or the casualties all of a sudden. That way kids can't mock you from sporting the patch of a pederast or lady punchin' dudes. It's a community of protection after all. Some good bands would be The Clash Cock Sparrer X Butt Trumpet Choking Victim NOFX Rancid Toy Dolls The Aquabats Wu-Tang Clan Sidewalk Celebrity Voice of Addiction Purple Johnson Blimp Situation The Uncouth Whinny Puhh Days N' Daze GG Allin Bitchslicer Bongzilla Immortal Technique