From the Classroom to the Stage, Borderline’s Rise Feels Unstoppable

Childhood friends Matthew McFadden (lead guitar), Jackson Boswell (drums, vocals) and Ben Glanfield (vocals, guitar, keys) have been releasing music as Borderline since 2022. After meeting bassist Max Harries at university, the group quickly bonded over a shared love of music and a desire to pursue it “in whatever capacity,” as Ben explains.

With their strong friendship as a foundation, Borderline thrives on collaboration, blending their individual tastes into music they can all connect with and take pride in.

“I think we just write what we want to write,” Ben says. “Having four people in a room, all listening to different music at different times, it ends up being this weird combination of genres and influences, but it works out great.”

This organic approach to songwriting allows each member to leave their own imprint on every track, resulting in music that feels both cohesive and constantly evolving. The group's openness to experimentation and individual expression has become their signature. Moving fluidly between indie-pop, rock, and even funk, Borderline’s discography offers something for everyone.

Matthew describes their approach “like a buffet - we pick and choose from our favourite genres and artists, and just take whatever inspires us in the moment.” Whether it’s groove-driven basslines, heavy drums, or unexpected elements being featured, the band leans into contrast and variety without losing its identity.

As the first Australian/New Zealand act signed to American independent label EMPIRE, Borderline have quickly found themselves on the global stage. They’ve delivered standout performances at major showcases, including the UK’s Great Escape and SXSW, a Ones to Watch showcase in London, Australia & NZ, as well as shows in New York and Los Angeles, building their fanbase with ease as they perform. This April, they’re touring North America with the US’s Oceanic, continuing to build their international reputation and connect even further with overseas audiences.

Despite success internationally, the group is also growing a large following closer to home. In October 2025, the group had the opportunity to support Teddy Swims on his I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy tour in New Zealand/Aotearoa, and rang in the new year performing on the Rhythm and Vines festival mainstage in 2025. Their latest single, “Watching It Burn,” released on March 12, signals an exciting new chapter. The track pairs heartfelt lyricism with a powerful, expansive sound featuring booming drums, distorted guitars, and an electrifying saxophone solo courtesy of bassist Max Harries. The production builds with intensity, layering elements that mirror the emotional weight of the song, before ending with a cathartic, high-impact finish. Lead vocalist Ben Glanfield delivers heartbreakingly sincere vocals, which alone would leave you in tears. However, true to Borderline’s style, “Watching It Burn” is a genre-blending track with a heavy rock influence that transforms it into an anthem for any occasion - driving up the coast, going out with friends, or even to energise your morning commute. It captures the band’s ability to turn complex emotions into something universally relatable, maintaining a sense of fun, freedom and a coming-of-age feeling that underpins their music.

With a growing fanbase, a string of high-profile performances, and a clear commitment to creative exploration and each other, Borderline are carving out a distinct space for themselves in the global music scene. If “Watching It Burn” is any indication of what’s to come from the group, it’s clear they’re headed on an incredibly exciting upward trajectory.