text: who are the best artists right now that few people have heard of? i have matt costa and augustana, the be good tanyas and brandi carlile, chantal kreviazuk and the cloud room, kt tunstall and saving jane.  how about some other artists or bands that i have to hear? how about the new pornographers (electric version and twin cinema are there most recent albums)?  the shins (chutes too narrow).  the postal service (give up).  sufjan stevens (illinois & michigan)  rilo kiley (more adventurous)  all are on independent labels and all are excellent.