My update: Had to give up on the single-ply Nevegal stick-e for the rear. Sidewalls are just too crappy resulting in too many pinch flats (this is a hardtail, and I do ride with some pace on familiar trails). I've adapted more to the Nevegal on the front, and I think I'm at peace with it given the cost/weight/grip tradeoffs.
Picked up a Nobby Nic evo-snakeskin as the replacement back tire, mostly out of curiosity and the fact that I like Schwalbe's road tires. Sidewall is way, way ahead of the Kenda, but the rubber compound is definitely a little sketchy on the roots. Hooks up fairly well in the mud a loamy stuff, though, especially considering how well it rolls. Way faster tire than the one it replaced, obviously, and as such there's the unavoidable tradeoff in grip. Overall, I can live with it for the rear, but would not want it on the front. Pretty sure it's the 2010 version, so no comment on possible differences on the 2011 rubber.
I've ordered a Rampage SC and a Specialized Clutch for experimentation. Will update again once I give 'em a try for front/rear duty. I'd like to try the Conti too, but had to draw the line [HTML_REMOVED] budget somewhere. :)