Great country recording

Mark Knopfler and Chet Atkins - Neck and Neck

Any will do, but if you can find this one...

https://elusivedisc.com/mark-knopfler-and-chet-atkins-neck-and-neck-k2-hd-import-cd/

Or, if you prefer records...

https://store.acousticsounds.com/d/99187/Chet_Atkins__Mark_Knopfler-Neck_And_Neck-180_Gram_Vinyl_Rec...

Dolly Parton: Little Sparrow

achingly beautiful lyrics and music that is perfectly recorded

And how about Trisha Yearwood: Every Girl or Hearts in Armour

family and friends starring Charlie Haden also features beautiful songs

jnovak230 posts
  Put Ian Tyson's "Cowboyography" on your list. He originally released in western Caanada thinking maybe it wouldn't go much further. But it did!
give it a listen. Joe

I second the above recommendation.  Lived in Calgary for 20 years and saw Tyson live numerous times.  Fine songwriter and excellent vocalist.

Go for LPs, Emmylou Harris. I test my carts and styli using Cimmaron. 

Emmylou Harris was the most sought after artist by all the great artists of her time! Many greats appear on her albums, playing instruments and as accompanying vocals and backups/duets. 

Instrumental quality and arrangements were the best in the business!