How about ArchLinux with Openbox
I'm a loser I know.
I used to use Ubuntu but now that I've started with Arch, I'll probably never go back. Arch is based on simplicity and speed, but it is mainly intended for advanced users. It's highly configurable to suit personal taste.
This is my laptop setup:
2 instances of conky (notes on the bottom left and computer stats, weather, time, email, calender on the right). Terminal embedded on the desktop in the top left with a script someone wrote to list setup info and display the old arch logo. Pypanel toolbar in the top with Sonata minimized in the tray (connects to the desktop computer where mpd runs).
If anyone is interested, I'll share openbox, pypanel, or conky configs and scripts or any other info on Arch or my setup. My desktop computer is very similar with dual monitors.
Sorry about the large format (so you can see the details):
