Mabe Fratti

Born in Guatemala City, María Belén Fratti Sierra, known professionally as Mabe Fratti, was raised in a Pentecostal household where her musical exposure was initially limited to Christian and classical genres. At the age of eight, she began her formal training in cello, an instrument that would become central to her artistic expression. Her early years were marked by a strict musical environment, but her curiosity led her to explore beyond these confines. Discovering file-sharing platforms like LimeWire opened her ears to a diverse array of sounds, including avant-garde compositions by artists such as György Ligeti. This exposure ignited a passion for experimental music, setting the stage for her future endeavors.

In 2015, Fratti's musical journey took a significant turn when she participated in a residency at the Goethe Institute, which brought her to Mexico City. Immersing herself in the city's dynamic improvisational music scene, she collaborated with artists like Libertad Figueroa, Gudrun Gut, and Julián Bonequi. These experiences enriched her musical palette and led to the formation of the avant-garde collective Amor Muere. In 2019, she released her debut album, 'Pies Sobre la Tierra,' inspired by W.G. Sebald's 'The Rings of Saturn.' The album showcased her ability to blend classical cello techniques with experimental sounds, earning her critical acclaim. Her subsequent albums, including 'Será Que Ahora Podremos Entendernos' (2021) and 'Se Ve Desde Aquí' (2022), further solidified her reputation as an innovative artist unafraid to explore new sonic territories.

Beyond her solo work, Fratti has been an active collaborator in various musical projects. She co-founded the experimental supergroup Amor Muere, alongside Concepción Huerta, Gibrana Cervantes, and Camille Mandoki. Their 2023 release, 'A Time to Love, a Time to Die,' showcased a fusion of diverse musical influences. Additionally, her partnership with Héctor Tosta, known as I. La Católica, led to the formation of the duo Titanic. Their 2023 album 'Vidrio' was described as a blend of jazz and chamber pop, highlighting Fratti's versatility and willingness to push musical boundaries.

In 2024, Fratti released her fourth studio album, 'Sentir Que No Sabes,' produced by I. La Católica. The album received widespread acclaim for its emotive depth and innovative soundscapes. Critics praised it as 'rich, rewarding, spellbinding music' and noted its 'abundantly melodic, constantly surprising' nature. This release further cemented Fratti's status as a leading figure in the experimental music scene, with her work resonating with audiences worldwide.

Fratti's music is characterized by a seamless blend of classical training and experimental exploration. Her use of the cello, combined with vocals and synthesizers, creates immersive soundscapes that challenge traditional genre boundaries. Influenced by avant-garde composers and contemporary experimental artists, she has developed a unique style that is both introspective and expansive. Her willingness to embrace uncertainty and explore new sonic possibilities has made her a significant influence on emerging musicians in the experimental and avant-garde scenes.

https://www.instagram.com/mabefs

https://mabefratti1.bandcamp.com

https://www.youtube.com/@mabefratti