Prog without trying to be

[Yesspaz]

Absolutely, and that's why these bands are the best of the new breed, because they aren't TRYING to be prog. I hate cloner bands on principle because there's no difference between them and the pop clones. Backstreet Boys gets big, then NSYNC gets bigger, then we have clones like 98 Degrees.

If there's a difference, it's because it's DIY and not label pushed, and also the musicianship and talent level. But ideologically, same idea.

I've more respect for any group of musicians who get together and write music without a "plan of what we'll sound like," - just letting it gel and meld and become what it is - than I do for a group of musicians who try to be prog or metal or whatever.

I'd add to Mike's list:

Iona
Godspeed You Black Emperor!
Turing Machine

Like 'em or loathe 'em, you can't say they're copying anyone.