Instead of recommending certain artists, I will instead offer a few tips to help you avoid bad experiences in the future.

1. Go to small venues. The smaller the venue the more likely you are to enjoy the show. This is partly due to all the hangers-on who go to larger shows. They often are not interested in the music, just being seen there. Most of my bad experiences have been with jerks in large crowds.

2. Stand close to the stage. For every step closer you get to the musicians the experience gets significantly better. It is scary at first but soon it becomes addicting. Getting closer makes you more a part of the performance itself. It helps you appreciate the skill of the artist too. Fewer people are in front of you to ruin your experience. One drawback is that often the sound is not complete close to the stage.

3. Avoid big name acts. Big egos, big crowds. You don't have to deal with it if you take a little time to search out well-reviewed but less popular artists. They appreciate you and often give a great performance even if the crowd is small. Small crowds can be more enthusiastic, which has a positive effect on the performance. I went to one show and I was the only one there (other than the supporting bands) due to a last-minute schedule change. It was one of the best shows ever.

4. The best thing you can do to insure your enjoyment is to become familiar with the music they will play. Seeing a band without knowing their music makes it a crapshoot. Knowing the songs makes you a more passionate listener.

In answer to the question above, yes, the White Stripes are quite entertaining live. Jack gives everything. Meg is one of the most interesting drummers to watch. The downside is stupid crowd members as they have grown in popularity.

Two of my favorites haven't been mentioned yet:

Yeah Yeah Yeahs who are simply amazing live.

The Hiveslive up to one major music publication's billing as "the best live show."

There is so much great music being made today. So many great bands are playing small venues. I am an old guy but I think the music scene has never been better. It just takes a little work to find it instead of being force-fed by your local radio DJ.

Check out last.fm (my last.fm page links from my sig below) to discover what others are listening to and the shows they are seeing.