Hmmmm, great question.

As for well known bands, I love the following: Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers (my personal favorite), Rush, and Pink Floyd.

As for bands who are just as good but not well known, definitely Harriers of Discord. They’re a band from LA and Asheville and remind me of some of the greats re: above (particularly Rush). We actually did an interview with them, you should give it a read.