The Outpost Family Band How About You? Privately Released Unknown Year

The Outpost Family Band How About You? Privately Released 1982 CAT# OP-74

This appears to be the first LP by the Outpost Family Band as it gives a lengthy introduction to the band on the backside, written by Donna Wise, wife to founder of the band, Don Wise. Wasn't aware when listening to the other LP I have from the group, but Don Wise is paralyzed from the waist down due to an apparent diving accident

Although the year is unlisted, the follow up LP indicates the prior album (which I'm almost positive is this) was recorded in 1982. It's a pleasant mixture of religious, traditional and some bluegrass reworkings of old rock n' roll. Don Wise contributes a few of his own songs and they aren't half bad. It's sounds homespun and was put out by the band privately.

The Outpost Family Band A Little Outpost of Heaven Outpost Records 1984

The Outpost Family Band A Little Outpost of Heaven Outpost Records 1984 CAT# NR15302

The Outpost Family Band is a legitimate family band that is still playing bluegrass throughout Kansas. On this 1985 LP, the band was made up of 5 players with additional add-ons from their family members. The wives might sing or play here or there and a number of tracks feature youngsters taking lead vocals. They play country styled gospel and traditional bluegrass.

It sounds like a gimmick and it probably should be, but the band sounds honest and real. They are from Winfield, KS, home of one of the nation's biggest bluegrass festivals, so they can't get all Ozarks, MO on people, it isn't a tourist town. This LP is a pleasant mixture of gospel tunes, traditionals and some decent originals. You can't crap on pleasant, it's a good album.

The liners do give some insight to the members who were very active throughout the 80's in the Kansas and area bluegrass and traditional stringed music scenes. Winning numerous awards throughout Kansas and nearby states.

A Little Outpost of Heaven