I know your pain, m95x is top of the tree even when you pay more for CNC or other options, it's never as good.
I tend to add a bit of personality through other components like brakes, cranks, hubs/wheels and saddles.
That said, may I present the retromod option.
I've never been one to care much about period parts, if I like the frame I'll build it how I like it. If you are bored of m95x, why not try m970? SRAM X0? Both are evolutions of the 9 speed gearing and imho, mighty fine options. You retain the spirit of 9 speed but with modern improvements. XT and X9 are also good options, 9sp slx too a d not straying too far from the top tier. SRAM 9.0 was also good and top of the SRAM tree befor X0.