Laughing Colors - Great straight-ahead rock band out of Annapolis, MD. They regularly tour the Mid-Atlantic region, but really haven't broken out further than that. I've been to atleast 10 of their shows, and every one was amazingly energetic and professional. Their guitarist, Cory Hall, and drummer, Will Dorsey Jr, are both particularly impressive. Check out
www.laughingcolors.com for a few sound clips.
The Black Keys - well, they've been on Conan and got great reviews from Rolling Stone, but you still probably havne't heard of them. they're a blues duo (singer/guitarist and drummer) that absolutely rock. think white stripes but good and add in some authentic mississippi delta blues.
www.theblackkeys.com