PAVLOV´S DOG

“A band should start a comeback only if they can perform bigger and more sophisticated as they were.
Pavlov’s Dog did this terrifically successful” (Eclipse Magazine)
“The whole band is absolutely thrilling. The musicianship is stunning, the passion involved in each
note is astounding, and everyone is left at the end of the night with the priceless feeling of having
witnessed one of those rare gigs that will remain long in the memory.” (Prog Magazine)

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As the U.S. based progressive rock phenomenon Pavlov’s Dog nears the half century mark of its
history, this most curious of legends continues to astound its loyal fans with some of the most unique
music ever conceived in its genre. Rumors and tall tales abound throughout its storied career, and
that of its leader singer/composer David Surkamp.
Founded in 1973 as a quartet consisting of David, bassist Rick Stockton, violinist Siegfried Carver &
drummer Mike Safron, the band was duly signed to ABC Records to the then unheard of sum of
$500,000. With industry expectations through the roof, Pavlov’s Dog delivered one of the most
brilliantly confounding debuts of all time with its initial release “Pampered Menial.” To say the album
left journalists sometimes speechless, sometimes tongue-tied, would be a gross understatement. To
put it simply, no one had ever heard anything like the incredible songs and vocal performances of this
singular effort. Songs including “Julia,” “Late November” & “Of Once & Future Kings” remain concert
highlights decades after their release.
The foundations of mystery developed throughout the following few years. Concert performances
with acts including ELO, Arrowsmith, Kraftwerk, Nektar and Blue Oyster Cult met rave reviews. Soon
upcoming giants, including Heart, Thin Lizzy, Bob Seger and Journey, found themselves opening shows
for Pavlov’s Dog. Still, American radio found the band’s one of a kind brilliance an uncomfortable fit in
the era of the dreaded corporate rock formula.
During the recording of the band’s third album, David had reached the breaking point. Unhappy with
the ego fits & chaos of the other band members, the bard left his band behind and journeyed to the
great northwest scene of Seattle where he continued to explore his unique musical vision. Combining
his talents with former Fairport Convention vocalist Ian Matthews, the two friends delivered an
exhilarating pair of albums under the banner “Hi-Fi.” Those two efforts remain valued collectors items
in knowing circles.
Pavlov’s Dog reappeared briefly for the release of 1990’s “Lost In America,” and then came together
for its 30th anniversary reunion concert in the group’s hometown of Saint Louis. Inspired by duo
performances with his wife Sara, and the addition of world class soloist Abbie Steiling on electric
violin, the ensemble returned to the concert stage with Pavlov’s Dog turning out electrifying sets in its
own grand tradition throughout Europe. The band’s initial return culminated in a breathtaking
performance in front of 54,000 fans at the Arrowrock Festival in Holland.
Not content to rely solely on its classic albums, Pavlov’s Dog has continued to expand its vision with an
unrivaled bevy of new album releases, including two concert albums “Live & Unleashed” and
“Housebroken.” More importantly, David has composed two extraordinary collections of songs on
studio released masterpieces “Echo & Boo” and “Prodigal Dreamer.” In addition, all the original
albums have been rereleased with bonus tracks courtesy of Rockville Records.
The rest is yet to come…………………!!!!