First thing to do is to create a Myspace page if you haven't already. This the is best and easiest way to communicate with other bands in your area. It can also be used as an electronic press kit, which most clubs these days accept...

Put together an actual press kit with a short band bio, cd with at least 3 songs, and a band picture. Get this kit to a booking/promotional company in your area. There are a ton of them out there that has the contacts for booking unsigned bands.

Contacting other local bands for an opening spot is the best way. After you get your foot in the door at the clubs, they will start to recognize you when you contact them for a booking...start at the smaller clubs, your first gig will not be at the largest venue in your area...

Another thing it to never call or e-mail saying "we want to play your club", etc...speak in 3rd person. "These guys bring a hard hitting show" rather than "we bring a hard hitting show". If you don't have a booking agent, act like one and don't act like your actually in the band.......

The key is to stick together and don't give up......It took us about 2 years before we headlined our first show. In the first year, we might have played a show every 2 or 3 months.....It's a slow process...