W: Kelly Wassernman I: Felix Barlett

“Breathe” is out February 19th, 2026 on all streaming platforms.

London’s queer alt-metal architect Ray Noir has returned with "Breathe," a track that feels less like a song and more like a high-stakes survival tactic. Tackling the paralyzing weight of imposter syndrome and the relentless noise of self-doubt, the single serves as a sonic mirror for anyone who has ever felt like an intruder in their own life. It doesn't offer a polite hand-hold through the darkness; instead, it acknowledges that the "darkness" is often a permanent resident, demanding we learn to coexist with the inner voices that tell us we aren't enough.

Musically, "Breathe" is a masterclass in tension and release, expertly blurring the lines between a sweat-soaked basement club and a mosh pit. Noir fuses the jagged aggression of modern metal with the cinematic drama of electronic pulses, creating a soundscape that is as claustrophobic as the overactive mind it describes. The production mirrors the heart-rate spikes of anxiety, using heavy industrial textures to ground the soaring, emotive vocals. It’s a polished, punishing anthem that proves heavy music is at its best when it's at its most vulnerable.

At the core of the track is Noir’s own journey through a scene that hasn't always left the light on for queer creators. "Growing up gay in the alt scene, I never thought I’d have a place in it," Noir reflects, noting how a historic lack of representation fueled his internal struggle. By reclaiming that space, "Breathe" transforms from a personal confession into a communal war cry. It’s a reminder that survival isn't always about finding the exit—it’s about the grit required to take the next breath when the air feels thin.