Renowned New York City songwriter and producer Charlie Nieland has released “Today,” a cinematic single from his latest album, ‘Stories From the Borderlines’. The track features iconic keyboardist Joe McGinty, known for his work with The Psychedelic Furs, Ryan Adams, and Nada Surf. A sweeping hymn centered on loss and acceptance, “Today” was written during a period of personal uncertainty and eventually evolved into a lush, orchestral soundscape. McGinty contributed a wide array of vintage and modern synthesizers to the arrangement, including the Moog Muse and Oberheim Xpander, creating what Nieland describes as a magical forest of sound. The accompanying stop-motion video, directed by Alex Dar, provides a visual interpretation that balances the song’s themes of devastation and hope.
‘Stories From the Borderlines’ is a visceral exploration of connection and severance, blending elements of post-punk, dream pop, and progressive rock. Nieland, who has a storied career producing for major artists like Debbie Harry and Blondie, crafted the album as an act of imaginative resistance against a darkening world. The record has already earned critical praise, leading to Nieland being named Artist of the Year by The Manc Review. In addition to the collaboration with McGinty, the album features contributions from drummer Billy Loose and Staten Island rapper spiritchild. The project represents a highly personal chapter for Nieland, drawing inspiration from literary sources and his deep reverence for atmospheric pioneers like Kate Bush and Cocteau Twins.
Nieland will be performing a series of high-profile shows in early 2026 to support the new release. From February 19 to 21, he will appear at Joe’s Pub in Manhattan for “The Loser’s Lounge Presents R.E.M. vs. The Replacements,” a series directed by McGinty. Following these dates, he is scheduled for a full-band electric set at Young Ethel’s in Brooklyn on March 7, and a matinee performance at the 503 Social Club in Hoboken on April 12. ‘Stories From the Borderlines’ is currently available across all major digital platforms, including Bandcamp and Spotify, continuing Nieland’s decades-long trajectory as a vital fixture of the New York indie music scene.