The world of experimental music is set to welcome a fascinating collaboration this spring, as Guatemalan cellist Mabe Fratti and American guitarist Bill Orcutt prepare to release their debut album, Almost Waking, on May 22nd. The project, arriving via the Unheard of Hope label, brings together two distinct voices known for their innovative approaches to instrumental music, promising a soundscape that is both intimate and expansive. This collaboration represents a compelling intersection of musical styles and a testament to the power of cross-cultural artistic exchange.
Fratti, celebrated for her emotionally resonant cello work and explorations of contemporary classical and jazz influences, and Orcutt, renowned for his virtuosic and often frenetic guitar playing rooted in free improvisation and blues traditions, first connected online. The genesis of Almost Waking was, as Fratti described, a “total surprise.” She had been a long-time admirer of Orcutt’s work, specifically his self-titled 2017 album, and the opportunity to collaborate arose unexpectedly through a mutual connection and shared musical curiosity. The album’s creation unfolded remotely, with Fratti and Orcutt exchanging ideas and musical fragments over an extended period, a process that allowed for a unique and organic development of their shared sonic vision.
A Remote Collaboration Forged in Mutual Admiration
The collaborative process wasn’t entirely solitary. Fratti enlisted the support of I. La Catolica, her bandmate in the group Titanic, during recording sessions in Mexico City. Together, they focused on interpreting and expanding upon the guitar-based foundations laid by Orcutt. Fratti explained that they meticulously worked to “decipher the harmonic possibilities of Bill’s ideas and very carefully develop some good melodies that followed the guitar correctly.” This approach highlights a deliberate effort to create a cohesive dialogue between the cello and guitar, rather than simply layering sounds on top of each other. The vocal melodies, too, were crafted with a similar intention, aiming for a tight integration with Orcutt’s instrumental contributions.
Fratti also noted a conscious decision to embrace space within the arrangements, allowing the individual instruments to breathe and resonate. However, she also described a moment of spontaneous harmonic interplay, where she “shamelessly harmonized the vocals” on one particular track. This willingness to deviate from a minimalist approach and explore richer textures adds another layer of complexity to the album’s sonic palette. The resulting album, according to Fratti, possesses a “nostalgic vibe,” a quality she attributes to the unique circumstances of its creation and the emotional depth of the musical exchange.
Orcutt Reflects on the Unexpected Partnership
Bill Orcutt shared his own perspective on the collaboration via social media, recounting how Fratti’s inclusion of his name in a list of her favorite albums sparked the initial contact. He described immediately reaching out to propose a collaboration, spurred by a recommendation from Chris Corsano, a frequent collaborator of his, who praised Fratti’s musical abilities. Orcutt’s post, shared on Instagram, reveals his enthusiasm for the project, describing Fratti as “super creative, open, encouraging, an amazing player and just crazy smart.”
The development of Almost Waking took place over nearly a year, with Fratti and Orcutt exchanging files remotely. This method of working, while presenting logistical challenges, fostered a sense of freedom and experimentation, allowing them to explore unconventional ideas without the constraints of a traditional studio environment. The resulting album is a testament to their ability to overcome these challenges and create a cohesive and compelling work of art.
Prolific Output from Both Artists
Both Fratti and Orcutt have maintained remarkably prolific output in recent years. Fratti recently released Hagen with her band Titanic, an album that garnered critical acclaim, including a spot at No. 19 on Pitchfork’s list of The Best Albums of 2025. Hagen showcases Fratti’s evolving compositional style and her ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and emotionally resonant whole. Orcutt, meanwhile, released Music in Continuous Motion, a guitar quartet album, in 2025, further demonstrating his commitment to pushing the boundaries of instrumental music. Music in Continuous Motion is available on Bandcamp and highlights Orcutt’s distinctive guitar playing and his exploration of complex rhythmic and harmonic structures.
Exploring the Musical Backgrounds
Mabe Fratti’s musical journey has been marked by a willingness to experiment and challenge conventional boundaries. Born in Guatemala, she has established herself as a prominent figure in the contemporary music scene, known for her innovative use of the cello and her exploration of themes related to identity, memory, and displacement. Her work often incorporates elements of jazz, classical, and Latin American folk music, creating a unique and captivating sound. She has released several critically acclaimed solo albums and collaborated with a diverse range of artists, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and forward-thinking musician.
Bill Orcutt, has a long and storied history in the world of free improvisation and experimental guitar playing. He first gained recognition as a member of the band Harry Pussy in the 1990s, known for their raw and confrontational performances. Since then, he has continued to explore the possibilities of the guitar, developing a distinctive style characterized by its intensity, virtuosity, and unconventional techniques. Orcutt’s work often draws inspiration from blues, jazz, and avant-garde music, resulting in a sound that is both challenging and deeply rewarding.
What to Expect from Almost Waking
The first songs released from Almost Waking, the title track and “El inicio es cuestión de suerte,” offer a glimpse into the album’s overall aesthetic. These tracks showcase the interplay between Fratti’s cello and Orcutt’s guitar, highlighting their ability to create a dynamic and engaging musical conversation. The music is characterized by its spaciousness, its attention to detail, and its willingness to embrace both moments of quiet introspection and bursts of energetic improvisation. Listeners can anticipate an album that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, a testament to the creative synergy between these two remarkable musicians.
The album’s release on Unheard of Hope, a label known for its commitment to supporting innovative and experimental music, further underscores its artistic significance. Unheard of Hope has consistently championed artists who push the boundaries of genre and challenge conventional expectations, making it a fitting home for this unique collaboration.
Almost Waking is poised to be a significant release in the experimental music landscape, offering a compelling blend of musical styles and a testament to the power of artistic collaboration. The album’s release on May 22nd will undoubtedly generate excitement among fans of both Mabe Fratti and Bill Orcutt, as well as those seeking out innovative and challenging new music. The anticipation builds as the release date approaches, promising a listening experience that is both rewarding and thought-provoking.
As the release date of May 22nd nears, music enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing the full scope of this unique collaboration. Further updates and information regarding the album, including potential tour dates and additional promotional materials, will likely be announced by Unheard of Hope in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more details and prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating sound world of Almost Waking.
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