Folk/Rock choices that are well recorded

Can't vouch for CD versions of these as I only have them on vinyl. But if the sound quality on vinyl is any indication, one of my all-time favorites is Phoebe Snow's self titled album. Recorded and produced by the great Phil Ramone, I love this record when I am in the mood for this sort of thing. Two others that I am surprised haven't been mentioned are Cat Stevens "Tea For The Tillerman" and Tracy Chapman's debut album; both were often cited for good sound qualityp and are considered musical classics. Lastly, if you're going to go down the "folk music/good sound" road, as an audiophile, on principle alone and for better or worse, you should have The Weavers "At Carnegie Hall". I think I'm showing my age 😊

Slaw, I agree with you; it's always a little frustrating when the OP disappears. That's why I am sure you will follow up in your "song structure" thread 😉

I concur w/ the panel;
Tracy Chapman, John Prine, Jack Jackson, Amos Lee,
Bob Dylan are great recordings for openers.

Keep me posted & Happy Listening!

Although I'd characterize the sound as ok rather than especially good, I'll nevertheless mention The New Christy Minstrels "Greatest Hits" CD. Very likable music, IMO, including their best known hits from the 1960's such as "Today" and "Green, Green."

Regarding the comments about lack of follow-up by the OP, I'm not sure that everyone has noticed that his post was from 2005.

Regards,
-- Al

Picaresque by The Decemberists is an excellent recording and work  with many folk elements.   Recorded in a church somewhere I believe. 

Eva Cassidy’s Songbird is a live recording in a small nightclub & sounds excellent on Qobuz. Some of the most beautiful female vocals you’ll ever hear from a super talented musician. Sad one folk, done blues, some older classics. Very realistic live sound. Don’t miss it.