About This Piece
Klimbim is one of Don Ross's most celebrated original compositions, showcasing his signature blend of percussive techniques and melodic invention. The title — Russian slang for "knick-knacks" or "stuff" — suits the playful, unpredictable nature of the piece.
Ross layers slap harmonics, melodic runs, and driving rhythmic patterns into a piece that sounds like an entire band compressed into one guitar. It has become one of the defining recordings on the Candyrat Records label.
Technical Overview
Don Ross employs a wide array of right-hand techniques throughout Klimbim:
- Slap harmonics: The right-hand thumb slaps the strings, creating percussive pops and ringing harmonics simultaneously
- Thumb independence: The bass thumb maintains a groove while the fingers play independent melodic lines
- Two-hand tapping: Occasional left-hand taps add rhythmic accents and extended-range notes
Learning Path
This is a genuinely advanced piece that demands strong independence between all four fingers and the thumb. Players should be comfortable with:
- Solid alternating bass thumb
- Slap harmonics on multiple strings
- Dynamic control — the piece shifts from whisper-soft to full-body percussive
Start by learning the opening bass/melody groove at half speed before attempting any of the percussive effects.