Gospel vocalist/producer/songwriter Ken Tamplin began working with the group Joshua, who debuted in 1982 with The Hand Is Quicker Than the Eye. Tamplin also appeared on 1985's Surrender and 1987's Intense Defense, but moved to the band Shout for 1988's It Won't Be Long. He worked as a producer for the band on the following year's In Your Face. Ken Tamplin's first solo album, An Axe to Grind (released as Tamplin & Friends), was released in 1990. One year later, he issued Soul Survivor and followed up with another group work, Big Bang, in 1992. ~ John Bush, All Music Guide