Renowned NYC songwriter and producer Charlie Nieland has officially released ‘Stories From The Borderlines’, a dazzling and deeply personal album that explores the intricate geography of human connection and severance. Known for his work producing legends like Debbie Harry and Blondie, Nieland has crafted a collection of cinematic soundscapes that act as a form of imaginative resistance against a darkening world. The record serves as a visceral blend of post-punk, glam, and dream pop, drawing on influences ranging from David Bowie to the Cocteau Twins. Recorded primarily at Saturation Point Studios in Brooklyn, the album features longtime collaborators Billy Loose on drums and Dan McAssey on guitar, as well as stunning synth work from Joe McGinty of The Psychedelic Furs.
Coinciding with the release, Nieland has unveiled the official video for the single “Shame,” a visually striking piece directed by Hypnodoll and filmed by Alice Teeple. The track delves into themes of weaponized obsession and self-loathing, pairing dark lyrical inquiry with firecracker energy. ‘Stories From The Borderlines’ was preceded by ‘The Ocean Understands’ EP and the epic lead track “Win,” which features activism-focused verses from Staten Island rapper spiritchild. As an artist who has been awarded a Gold record for his work with Blondie and scored iconic projects like The Safety of Objects, Nieland continues his evolution on this solo effort, meticulously mining for light through a lens of 80s and 90s synth-driven reverence.