MOTM

I thought of one more group which deserves mention IMHO.  
Echolyn.  Although this group was around in the 90's their style is 
much closer to 70's prog rock.  I think they're from Philly.  Superb 
musicianship, vocals and production.  I would recommend "As the 
World."  
When I'm engineering or producing in an unfamiliar studio I use this 
CD and "Stereotomy" by Alan Parsons to check out the monitors.