5 best underrated or unknown bands and why?

Michael Hashim, while not new or really "unknown", I feel should be heard and appreciated by more people. He's a tenor, alto jazz sax player and has a few discs out. I especially enjoy "A Blue Streak" which has some pretty good B-3 organ played by Mike LeDonne. Hashim is fine player and at times on alto reminds me of Joe Farrell at Farrell's best. Cheers, Lee

How 'bout Cul De Sac?
I heard them the first time with Damo Suzuki(of Can) and was impressed of them not less than known to me Damo Suzuki.
I immediately ordered their albums and am always full of joy listening.

The Alex Harvey Band... nuff said.

I am also not sure If Ben will put if the cuffs on me, but be on the lookout for Dallas' own, Polyphonic Spree. Their Christmas party was one of the best shows I've seen, and their popularity is rising quickly.

Can't think of 5 at the moment, but one stands in my mind -

XTC. While it can be argued that they may not be the most gifted musicians, their body of work as a whole will stand up to any in the history of popular music on the basis of lyricism and wonderful arrangements. For those that truly take the time to sit, listen and read the lyrics, the rewards will be many. This band's songwriting is nothing short of astonishing.

CD