Its good that you want to change things and that you tried taking matters into your hands.
While I can't offer what you are looking for I'll still go for a few pieces of advice. First, realize you have been affected by the way the java enterprise world works. Proof is the list of frameworks and technologies that you felt you needed to disclose, also is the fact that you are looking for the "cool tech". Don't see these technologies as merit badges you collect, learn to look at things at a larger scale, how they compare, how they fit together, how they help you solve problems. Get really good at finding the right fit and learning the technologies quickly. Don't focus too much on the puzzles, unless you find them entertaining.
As for the finding an itch to scratch, its easier if its your own but its better if its one many people share, even better if its one technology people usually don't have. You're more likely to find one if you spend time doing other things with other people.
Finally, maybe you just need a job change not all java jobs are the same.
While I can't offer what you are looking for I'll still go for a few pieces of advice. First, realize you have been affected by the way the java enterprise world works. Proof is the list of frameworks and technologies that you felt you needed to disclose, also is the fact that you are looking for the "cool tech". Don't see these technologies as merit badges you collect, learn to look at things at a larger scale, how they compare, how they fit together, how they help you solve problems. Get really good at finding the right fit and learning the technologies quickly. Don't focus too much on the puzzles, unless you find them entertaining.
As for the finding an itch to scratch, its easier if its your own but its better if its one many people share, even better if its one technology people usually don't have. You're more likely to find one if you spend time doing other things with other people.
Finally, maybe you just need a job change not all java jobs are the same.