well, i know the hardcore detroitophiles think techno also lost its way somewhere in the mid-90s, so it's probably a matter of perspective. HOWEVER, at the risk of sounding like a nostalgic old fogey, i can't really think of any house that captures the thrill of those early trax and dj int'l releases. really dark, melancholic stuff, full of space and super atmospheric.
but i do also like some of the later, cheesier stuff. and the hard side of chicago. speaking of, think thomas bangalter's homage to robert armani, sneak etc. is worth a mention, even if he's not from chicago
YouTube - THOMAS BANGALTER - TRAX ON DA ROCKS