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Buzznet (http://www.buzznet.com/)

common sense media says

Grab bag of indie rock news for hipster teens can be dark.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this site is designed for teens and young adults interested in the indie rock scene. Edgy content, like raucous band interviews and in-your-face photography is too mature for tweens. The member's forum users post freely and the conversations can get flirty or in-depth. Watch out for the links to other Web sites, like Vampire Freaks and The Gauntlet (a hardcore metal music fan site).

Educational value: Since the site focuses on independent and alternative music, plus user-submitted content, there is a diverse blend of photography, blogs, videos, and reporting on the site that can be very creative and inspiring -- especially for budding artists.
Positive messages: Band videos tend to be wild, and user-submitted content can be intense (like photos of models with blood on their faces). There are also lots of discussions about the "rock star" lifestyle, which includes casual sex, drinking, and hard partying.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Some users discuss sexual themes and flirt with each other. Also there is a lot of discussion about bands, particularly boy band members and their attractiveness to female fans.
Language: Expletives can be found throughout the online community forums and in the band videos. However, content provided by the site seems to steer clear of four-letter words and censors them when used in interviews.
Consumerism: Plenty of ads on this site, mainly promoting music groups. Some of the ads look very similar in design and graphics to the regular Web site content, so it can be confusing to users what is content and what is an advertisement. The I Want That! feature reviews products that teens might like and the Style department dishes about where to shop.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: There are references to drinking in some videos and since users can submit their own content, you might find iffy stuff.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

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What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about how the Internet has helped create a flourishing independent music scene. Do you think Web sites, such as this one, add to the appeal of indie music? Also, how do you think this site has combined platforms from various other sites, like MTV and Facebook. Do you think this site successfully combines social networking with music coverage? Are you inspired to upload videos of your band?

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Combine the best and worst of the teen years and you get a good idea of Buzznet. At its worst it's snarky, disorganized, and too cool for school. At its best it's creative, bursting with youthful energy, and original. Buzznet's user-submitted content and editorial blogs can be hit or miss, but are usually entertaining. And if you are looking to discover the next big thing in music, Buzznet won't let you down. Because the content can veer toward dark and mature themes, the site is better for older teens.

This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

gemstone
parent of 15 year old
15
 
Great!
this site is great! as long as you secure your childs profile, [do not allow followers unless your child knows them] and don't post any photos, its awesome. my child created one to comment on j*'s posts, she doesnt have ANY information up, except that shes female. no photos. and its great! :)
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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines