Ottawa, ON/Gatineau, QC pop-punk/alternative rock band Chapter 33 shares their self-titled debut album, released alongside lead single “Trust,” an energetic and introspective collection that transforms years of personal growth into anthemic, emotionally honest songwriting. Blending pop-punk urgency, alternative rock grit, and classic melodic influences, the project explores relationships, accountability, purpose, and the ongoing challenge of becoming a better version of yourself.
Years in the making, Chapter 33 brings together songs written across different stages of lead singer/guitarist Jacob Collins’ life, with some ideas tracing back to his high school years. Inspired by the music that shaped him growing up, the album captures the spirit of bands like Green Day and Blink-182 while incorporating The Beatles-inspired harmonies and a reflective lyrical perspective.
“This album is the culmination of years of songwriting,” Jacob shares. “The songs explore personal growth, relationships, accountability, purpose, and the challenges of navigating life while staying true to yourself.”
What can you share with readers about your new project?
“Trust” is our fourth and final single, and it’s also featured on our debut album. Lyrically, “Trust” is about how difficult it can be to put your faith in people after you’ve been let down. It’s about questioning people’s intentions, learning from past experiences, and trying to find the balance between protecting yourself while still being open to others. I think it’s something almost everyone can relate to in one way or another, whether it’s through friendships, relationships, or life in general.
How does this release compare with your other projects you had in the past?
Compared to our previous releases, I think “Trust” feels more mature both musically and lyrically. When writing this one, I pushed myself to write a song that was more technical without losing the catchy melodies that define our sound. Lyrically, it also goes a little deeper, exploring themes of trust, vulnerability, and the difficulty of opening up after being let down. It feels like a natural step forward for us as songwriters and musicians.
What about this single makes you most proud?
What makes me most proud about this single is that, although it’s technically demanding on every instrument, it never loses its catchy hooks. On top of that, the lyrics are some of the most personal and heartfelt I’ve ever written. If this song encourages even one person to step out of their shell, give someone a chance, or stop letting past experiences define their future, that would honestly mean the world to me.
Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?
My main goal with this song is that people who take the time to read the lyrics might be inspired to step out of their shell and take a chance on new experiences instead of letting the past dictate the rest of their lives. Musically, I also wanted to prove to myself that I could write songs that are technically challenging while still being memorable and catchy.
What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?
It’s hard to say exactly what inspires me because, honestly, every day I want to be making music. It’s just what I naturally do whenever I have free time. Even if I wasn’t in a band, I’d still be writing songs and playing guitar. Inspiration can come from almost anything—having an amazing day, meeting someone who leaves an impression on me, feeling incredibly sad, or simply reflecting on the past or imagining the future. When it comes to lyrics, though, I usually draw inspiration from observing my own life and the lives of people around me. I just try to put those thoughts and emotions into words as honestly as I can.
If you could collaborate with anyone—dead or alive, famous or unknown—who would it be and why?
I would have to go with Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day. He’s the reason I wanted to become the frontman of a pop-punk band in the first place. Throughout high school, his music was constantly blasting through my headphones, and I’d imagine myself on stage doing what he was doing. I even catch myself moving around and performing a bit like him. At the core of what I’m trying to build with Chapter 33, his influence is impossible to ignore.
What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?
The last song I listened to on my drive home from work today was “Fixing a Hole” by The Beatles from their album, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. The Beatles are my favorite band of all time. They inspired me to start making music in the first place, and their story and legacy continue to inspire me every day. My love for melodies, thoughtful and introspective lyrics, songwriting craftsmanship, and music production all comes from them.
My second favorite band would have to be Green Day. They built the foundation of my love for punk rock. What really made me fall in love with them was that they were the first band I heard that combined incredible melodies and harmonies with music that was heavy, aggressive, and fast. Their lyrics could be dark, but they also knew how to write songs that were hopeful, loving, and beautiful. They opened my teenage eyes to the balance that music could have, both lyrically and musically.
Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?
Instagram is the best place to keep up with us. That’s where we post updates, show announcements, and new music. You can also stream “Trust” and the rest of our music on all major streaming platforms. We also have three music videos on our YouTube channel that accompany the three other singles released before “Trust”.
I really appreciate your time. Is there anything you’d like to share before we sign off?
First of all, thank you to Indie Music Discovery for taking the time to interview me. I really appreciate the opportunity to talk about our music. I’d also like to thank everyone who has listened to our songs, watched our music videos, followed us on social media, or come out to one of our shows. Every bit of support means more than you know, and we genuinely wouldn’t be able to do this without you.
To anyone reading this, if there’s something you’ve always wanted to do—a project, a band, or anything else—just go for it. Don’t let the voices in your head convince you that you’re not good enough or that nobody wants to see you succeed. If you have a vision, take that leap of faith and keep working at it. No matter what you think people think of you. You have every right to be yourself.
Five years ago, I never would have imagined I’d be comfortable singing in front of people, let alone releasing an album and putting myself out there. I was an extremely shy person. Growth takes time, but it’s amazing what can happen when you keep showing up, even when you’re scared. Don’t be afraid to put your heart, soul, and mind into something you truly believe in.
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