5 best underrated or unknown bands and why?

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

Well, Mr. Campbell, I understand where you're coming from, but while XTC may have gotten some critical acclaim, they are not widely accepted, acknowledged, or even recognized by most. Still underrated IMHO, as the thread title asks - not only unkown.

CD

I'll second Stan the man. And one of the best storytellers...

CD