porq is good. I think its more of a metal town. I'm kind of a shut in so i'm not too plugged into the scene, plus taking care of kids keeps me from seeing many shows. Touring bands do seem to skip it though...
Record stores:
Diabolical is the best, small but good curated selection of noise, punk and experimental stuff
Raunch is more of a skate shop but has a good selection of punk and hardcore, i always find something good there, plus good prices.
Randy's Records is the og, but kinda claustrophobic and general, but if you're looking for a new release you could find it. Also has regular $2 sales
Gray Whale is another longstanding store, similar to records, has a big cd selection too.
Fountain is new and is kinda a consignment shop but has its own selection too, big on jazz, soul and smoother stuff.