Learning Path to Hyperbass

[Acoustik]

Removing in-piece retuning from the equation, whether it be Mr. Manring or other Hyperbass players, there seems to be a stylistic commonality including melodic phrasing, thumb and multi-finger technique and the extensive use of harmonics present when reviewing videos and music samples available on the internet.

At some point, I would like to purchase a Hyperbass and explore this style to it's fullest. Until then, what path of learning would anyone recommend to build a solo style on a "fixed-tuner" fretless bass to prepare one to take the final step to Hyperbass?

Frankly, while I understand the importance of playing in "the groove", I have no immediate attentions of playing in a group setting and have gravitated toward Hyperbass players based on the solo capabilities of the instrument.

 

[Clef_de_fa]

I don't play an Hyperbass ( and I don't have that kind of money to buy one either ). But there is a lot of great solo player on "fixed" tuning like you said.

Zander Zon and Jeff Schmidt ( both use alternate tuning ), or guys like John Patitucci, Alain Caron, Steve Bailey etc

 

[Michael Manring]

I'm so glad you're interested in the solo bass world, Acoustik. It really is an exciting new frontier.

I recommend that you learn as much about music in general as you can, with a special emphasis on solo instrumental music. There is a wonderfully rich history of music out there for solo piano, guitar, ethnic instruments... even saxophone (please check out my friend, the amazing Ned Rothenberg) and drum set (how about Pete Zeldman?). The more you know about harmony, acoustics, rhythm, ethnomusicology, music history, etc., the more tools you will have to be able to create the sounds that appeal to you. Good luck!

 

[MCS4]

You could also consider adding one or more detuners (e.g. Hipshot D-Tuner) to your current bass, which would allow you to get some limited practice with in-song retuning and some of the other techniques that the detuner adds (i.e. hitting a harmonic and then changing the pitch with the detuner, using the detuner to move one note while holding a chord, etc.).