New music released by artists and labels associated with Washtenaw County
The Maxwell Rubin Trio is a group of experimental jazz and left-field funk musicians originally from Ann Arbor but now based in Detroit. The band, consisting of U-M graduates, is known not only for their exceptional music but also for their humorous and meme-worthy Instagram account. Their self-titled debut album showcases their playful yet skillful approach to music, drawing inspiration from African music, electronica, and soundtracks. Fans of Norway’s Jaga Jazzist and Canada’s BadBadNotGood are encouraged to give The Maxwell Rubin Trio a listen, available on Ann Arbor’s Sun Babe Records.
Paper Petals, located in Ann Arbor, presents an experimental and ambient sound in their album “State of the Union.” This protest-inspired album uses collage, noise, and ethereal voices to create a world filled with tension and unrest. Those who enjoy the styles of Zoviet France, Nurse With Wound, and the Isolationism comp will find Paper Petals’ music engaging and thought-provoking. To fully appreciate the depth of their music, it is recommended to listen with headphones.
Grunt., a local Ann Arbor project, recently released the “Angels & Aerials EP.” This instrumental EP, created for the 2026 OST Album Jam, features three tracks that span from moody guitar ballads to electronic chase-scene music. The versatility showcased in this EP is a testament to the creativity and talent of the individuals behind Grunt. Music enthusiasts can find “Angels & Aerials” on the project’s Bandcamp page.
The Winter Ghouls, an Ann Arbor-based solo project by Alex Bergslei, introduces listeners to a unique blend of lo-fi and grunge in their debut EP “This Pleases the Void.” Drawing inspiration from the early ’90s era, The Winter Ghouls infuse their music with roots-rock elements that set them apart in the music scene. The five-song EP is a testament to the artist’s versatility and ability to seamlessly blend different genres and styles.
The QR Network label from Ann Arbor continues to make waves in the music industry with three new releases, each filled with remixes that cater to dance enthusiasts worldwide. Michael Ace’s “Holiday Lights EP,” Autodepth, Noir Foncé, SMWLAYY & eeyrith’s “Carry Me Home EP,” and Rayven’s “Dreamland EP” offer listeners a diverse range of dance tracks that are sure to set the dancefloor on fire. For those looking for fresh beats and innovative sounds, The QR Network label is a go-to source for cutting-edge music.