I used to dislike Noel too. I just wasn't able to see the appeal of it, but then I started thinking of it as an alternative to Noah which I used to love, but realized that it sounds weird with my surname whcih also starts with No-. For some reason I think Noel works better, and that started our love affair haha!
I like all of the names you mentioned, but wouldn't use Blake or Elijah where I'm living.
Let us step into the night and pursue that flighty temptress, adventure.
PNL: http://www.behindthename.com/pnl/45898
Top: Alice and Matteol
Bottom: Kenzie and Deacon
'Eggbert' due December 2018