“House by the Lake” is a simple piano composition, but don’t let that fool you, it carries a lot of weight. It’s a song that feels more like a personal memory than a piece of music, something intimate and quiet. Ruus isn’t playing for grand effect; he’s playing for something real, something that hits close to home. It’s the sound of someone quietly processing a personal loss, but with a sense of peace and acceptance woven in.
The track is part of Ruus’ Listening to My Own Music series, where he re-experiences his past work in one continuous take, in places that carry deep meaning for him. In this case, it’s a lakeside location tied to memories of his grandfather, who passed away in 2020. Ruus imagined his grandfather living in a peaceful house by the lake, a contrast to the brutalist apartment building he spent most of his life in. That imagery is present in the music: calm, reflective, and still.
There’s a beautiful simplicity to the track. No frills, no bells and whistles, just the sound of a piano, carrying you through thoughts of family, memories, and the quiet after loss. It’s not loud or demanding, but its quiet presence lingers, much like a memory that stays with you.
Discover more from Cinematic Giants
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
