After quickly scanning thru a bud's MP3 collection, I find I need to look deeper into these artists: Can (specifically the album Ege Bamyasi, North Atlantic, Polvo (Sonic Youth-like?), Fugazi (I guess it's about time, eh?), Giant Sand, Howe, Spoon (made me think of Squeeze and Split Enz), Arab Strap, Slint (another one reminiscent of SY), and Loose Fur. He also turned me on to AMG - All Music Guide.