Nick Drake and others like him

Nick always reminded me of a quieter version of Donovan, there's a few 'best of Donovan' discs around.

Another one would be Robert Wyatt 'Rock Bottom'. It got 5 stars in 33 reviews on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Rock-Bottom-Robert-Wyatt/dp/B000006AXS

Someone more recent - equally as unique who has unfortunately passed on as well - Chris Whitley. Perhaps 'Dirt Floor' might be a good start, however do yourself a favor and spend some time exploring his other offerings as well.

definitely Elliott Smith (S/T, either/or, XO). also try Bonnie 'Prince' Billy's 'Master and Everyone'. but in the end, Nick Drake remains unique...

Lvk47, Im pretty sure Tim Buckley drowned, not suicide.

Wrong again. According to Wikipedia he O'D on heroin.