Bar Exam

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Bar Exam" by Andy Wood from his debut solo album A Disconcerting Amalgam, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks grooving to its genre-blending vibes. This instrumental piece, clocking in at 3:00, showcases Wood’s virtuosic guitar skills, weaving together elements of rock, fusion, and even hints of his bluegrass roots. In a 2021 interview on The Career Musician podcast, Wood shared that the album, released in 2009, was his way of breaking free from the hard rock mold, allowing him to explore diverse styles like metal, fusion, and acoustic bluegrass. While specific stories about "Bar Exam" are scarce, Wood has mentioned in discussions on his Instagram that tracks from this album were inspired by his desire to push technical boundaries while telling stories through melody, a hallmark of his instrumental work. Fans on the Andy Wood Music Facebook page often cite "Bar Exam" as a standout for its intricate riffs and energetic pace, perfect for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic radio vibe.

Little direct trivia exists about "Bar Exam" itself, but Wood’s broader commentary on A Disconcerting Amalgam offers insight. In a 2010 Guitar and Bass Magazine review, critics praised Wood as a “6 string prodigy,” noting the album’s mind-boggling display of skill, with "Bar Exam" likely contributing to that impression given its technical flair. On X, Wood has occasionally shared behind-the-scenes tidbits about his recording process, revealing that he laid down tracks for the album in a short, intense period, aiming to capture raw energy. Fans in the Andy Wood Fans Facebook group speculate that "Bar Exam" might reflect Wood’s competitive spirit, drawing from his early days battling it out in bluegrass festivals, though he’s never confirmed this. The song’s title could be a playful nod to the rigorous “test” of his musical versatility, a theme that resonates with the Zoo Freaks’ love for unconventional sounds.

Andy Wood got his start in music far from the electric guitar riffs he’s known for today. Growing up in Virginia, he was immersed in bluegrass, playing mandolin alongside his cousin and grandfather at festivals across the Southeast. According to his bio on Guitar Interactive Magazine, Wood and his cousin won multiple state championship titles, and at just 16, he took second place in the World Championship Mandolin Contest in Winfield, Kansas. It wasn’t until he was 18 that he picked up the electric guitar, quickly mastering it with the same prodigious talent he’d shown on mandolin. By his early 20s, Wood was touring with major acts like Rascal Flatts, Gary Allan, and Sebastian Bach, as noted on Wilkinson’s artist page. His debut album A Disconcerting Amalgam, featuring "Bar Exam," marked his shift toward blending genres, a move driven by his desire to transcend the hard rock scene he’d initially joined as a founding member of the band Down From Up.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, Andy Wood’s official website is the hub for his music, tour dates, and instructional content, reflecting his passion for teaching. His Facebook page keeps fans updated with live performance clips and album news, while Instagram offers a glimpse into his studio sessions and gear setups. On X, Wood engages directly with fans, sharing thoughts on music and occasional throwbacks to his bluegrass days. The Andy Wood Fans Facebook group is a lively spot for Zoo Freaks to connect, swap stories, and discuss tracks like "Bar Exam." While no major fan websites stand out, the Woodshed Guitar Experience, Wood’s annual music retreat, has its own online presence where fans can explore his teaching legacy, making it a must-visit for any dedicated Zoo Freak.