There are many mailing lists out there that are genre-specific. SmartToons was created as a place for people who listen to well-crafted music in many categories, the unifying factor being intelligent, literate lyrics, to discuss the music they love and exchange recommendations of lesser-known artists.

A short list of typical artists: XTC, Squeeze, Richard Thompson, Bob Dylan, Randy Newman, Warren Zevon, Leonard Cohen, REM, Nick Cave, Joni Mitchell, Aimee Mann, Elvis Costello, Loudon Wainwright III, Robyn Hitchcock, Joe Jackson, David Bowie, Brian Eno, Lou Reed, Crowded House, Jimmy Webb, Paul Simon, Sparks, the McGarrigle Sisters, Cole Porter, Lucinda Williams, Ben Folds, Gilbert & Sullivan, John Lennon, Stephin Merritt, John Hiatt, John Prine, Laura Nyro, Wilco, Spoon, Arcade Fire, Fleet Foxes, Laura Marling, The National, etc.

(This isn't necessarily personal taste and is just trying to give an idea of the range being covered.)