Burning Lake – “Horse Without A Rider” [Song Review]

Swiss folk-rock outfit Burning Lake releases their new single/lyric video, “Horse Without A Rider,” a track lifted from the band’s upcoming EP, Below The Surface.

Burning Lake’s Peter Bordui explains, “I was sitting in front of my computer one evening with my guitar on my lap when I received an e-mail informing me that a close friend of mine had just died unexpectedly. Among his many skills, he was a horseman, and I was struck by the sad realization that his horse had just lost his rider.”

“Horse Without A Rider” was recorded live at Kitchen Studio in Geneva, where Burning Lake laid down the basic tracks. Later, vocal and guitar overdubs were added in the band members’ home studios. The Woodgies’ backing vocals were recorded during an independent session in the studio, followed by handing the project over to producer Tom Maeder in Basel, who handled mixing and mastering.

“Horse Without A Rider” opens on the gentle, wistful motion of a softly gleaming guitar. A keening tone accentuates the poignant, nostalgic feel of the melody, which undulates beautifully on a low-slung, supple rhythmic pulse from an elegantly fluid bassline. Hints of country flavors and tender vocals infuse the song with colors and shadows vaguely reminiscent of Dan Fogelberg.

Burning Lake, photo by Tom Maeder

With their splendid single “Horse Without A Rider,” Burning Lake delivers a gorgeously graceful eulogy to a friend.

Run Time: 3:37
Release Date: March 10, 2026
Record Label: Independent