Willem James Cowan‘s new single, “Jam Jar,” is a raw, visceral anthem about self-reflection, the fallout of emotional mistakes, and the deep, spiraling thoughts that often follow. The track captures the feeling of being stuck in a loop of self-doubt and regret, all wrapped up in a striking folk-rock sound.
Inspired by a fight with his then-girlfriend, “Jam Jar” finds Cowan reflecting on a moment of fault while trying to understand things from the other person’s perspective. “We were out at a party, and I was at fault. While we were on our way home on the Toronto streetcar, I was trying to imagine things from her shoes—buried in a grave I designed,” says Cowan. The song’s narrative feels as personal as it does universal, touching on themes of vulnerability, guilt, and the struggle of owning up to one’s mistakes.
Tell us about your new project.
“Jam Jar” is the second track in a series of singles I’ve been releasing over the past few months. The song explores themes of relationship missteps and the effort to see things from your partner’s perspective. It’s a deeply personal track that reflects both growth and introspection.
How does “Jam Jar” compare to your previous releases?
I feel like this song marks an evolution in my songwriting. It’s one of my personal favorites so far, and I think I’m finally honing in on the sound I’ve been trying to uncover. Each release feels like a step closer to expressing the ideas that have been floating around in my head for a long time.
What aspect of “Jam Jar” makes you most proud?
I’m particularly proud of the lyrics and the bridge. I don’t always consider myself a “clever” lyricist, but I tapped into something a bit sharper with this one. Lines like “Too late to toss out all the vulgar things I wrote down, they stained the table underneath” feel meaningful to me. The bridge also stands out — I often struggle with writing strong bridges, so I tried to channel some “of Montreal” energy here, giving it a distinct departure from the rest of the track.
Did you have a particular goal with this release?
Absolutely. I hadn’t put out new music in about two years. Moving back home gave me the space to write more freely, and I feel like this song, along with the others in this project, really captures where I’m at right now — both musically and personally.
What inspires you to keep creating music?
I can’t imagine loving anything the way I love music. It’s been my passion since I started playing in bars at around 10 years old. Discovering new music keeps me motivated — I’m always seeking fresh sounds and releases that excite me.
If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?
I’d love to collaborate with James Mercer from The Shins. He’s one of my all-time favorite songwriters and doesn’t get nearly enough credit. I’d also love to work with Julia Jacklin — I think we’d really vibe creatively.
What’s the last song you listened to? Do you have favorite artists or bands?
The last song I played was Willie Nelson’s version of “Always On My Mind.” I’ve been diving into a lot of songs by The Highwaymen since I’m preparing for a theatre review show this April. As for all-time favorites, Elliott Smith, The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Pedro the Lion, The Shins, and Bright Eyes are at the top of my list.
Where can listeners connect with you?
I’m most active on Instagram, but I also run a mailing list where I share more personal updates and insights a couple of times a month. You can find both in my Linktree — hey hey hey!
Anything else you’d like to share?
Thanks so much for taking the time to chat! I’m heading out on a small Ontario tour this spring, and I’ll have another song out around that time as well. I’d love for you to give it a listen and, if you can, come out to a show — no pressure, though, I totally get it!
