Finding new music

I have recently picked up a few albums and was looking to expand my collection. I was just wondering how people decide on records to purchase and listen to. I have only one or two friends who could offer recommendations, and most other music I've found through some (limited) local radio or listening to tracks online.

Do you simply pick records based on names that you've heard of? Or research a specific artist or music genre, and then pick a record based on your findings.

I was browsing through a few record bins on a street near my job, and felt a bit overwhelmed trying to find a good pick since I didn't know many of the artists. I'm open to listening to a variety of music, but found it difficult to decide on a random piece. I have no problem picking up a few and testing them out, but I was just curious as to how others approach this.