I'm a strong supporter of local music, I can't even remember the last time I went to a concert that was not held in a bar. The difference between smaller bands and the big time bands is that the smaller bands have little to no backing tracks during their sets. The last concert I went to, I was discussing that issue with a member of one of the bands I went to see that night. Hearing everything in a song live and not recorded is just so much better, and really makes the experience.
You're paying to hear live music, not anything recorded. Here's some bands that are pretty awesome that use little back tracking or no back tracking at all during their sets. I have seen all of these bands live, trust me you don't want to miss any of their shows near you, they'll have you begging for more once you see them live. They're all pretty cool people to, and will actually talk to you for more than 30 seconds unlike any larger bands.
1. Marina City
2. 7 Minutes In Heaven
3. Best Kept Secret
4. The Millenium
5. Time Atlas
6. Royal Street
7. Six Stories Told
8. Walkney
9. Beneath The Spin Light
10. This Is All Now
It's alright to enjoy the popular music on the radio but, don't forget about the smaller bands who are more raw. These bands record on their own and tour on their own, it's pretty amazing to see it all live. 10/10 recommend seeing these bands, you'll want to see them again and again.