Did a little listening on Amazon and ended up ordering some Masta Ace (Sittin On Chrome & Long Hot Summer) and the Louis Logic & JJ Brown record and Balance by Akrobatik. Also, finally listened to Binary Star and, wow, brilliant, exactly what I was after here (ordered Masters of the Universe)!
Listened to samples of (and did not like) Z-Ro, Dead Prez, Immortal Technique (like the idea, but did not work for me), Tech N9ne, and Chino XL (still undecided on him).
I just thought I would let you all know that I am actually trying to look at everything recommended and I do appreciate everyone taking the time to put something on the list, it has been a massive help! I have so much decent new music from this thread alone!
Cheers,
KT
Edit: Ack, just realized I never looked at effow's post...more work to do now!