short, really thick hair - what product to use for spikey, messed-up, brad-pitt-in-fight-club look??

Hi. My hair is about 5cm long all over, pretty much. It's also VERY thick... so when i don't put anything in it, i have a big pillow-like bob, and when i use gel / wax i have a slightly smaller, greasy, clumpy bob - the thickness makes it very hard for any shaping/moulding to hold. Has anyone else had the same problem? and/or found a suitable product to use?

I guess i'm looking for something to give a pliable form, matte finish and strong hold.... (at the moment i use l'oreal 'out of bed' fibre putty but i'm not too pleased with the results)