So email requires a mailserver and a client. GMail does both, but that's entirely optional. The host is typically what determines if the IP is considered spammy.
Pretty much all mailservers (even GMail) let you use any client you want, and I like terminal based clients. Although most servers also provide a web GUI similar to GMail except usually less bloated lol.
Pretty much any hoster's email I've tried has been fine, maybe try something else if Dreamhost isn't working? It's usually <$5/yr or so for email hosting.