What is the best way for an independent band to promote themselves?

[k.a.y.l.a]

if you can afford it, put out a demo and sell it cheaply.

put on shows locally at first until you think you are good enough to tour. touring can screw up lots of new bands.

online stuff like making a Purevolume account, Myspace account, YouTube account, those are good ideas. that way if people see you/hear you/hear about you they'll be able to find you again. but Twitter is kind of unnecessary if you are just starting out.

fliers are good if you put them in the right places. example: local coffee shop = good idea. local elementary school = not quite as smart.

and yeah having lots of friends/networking whatever, that's a good idea too. making friends with people in the industry or other bands is a great idea.