Origin: Russia
Location: Miass, Chelyabinsk Oblast
Formed: N/A
Status: Active
Genre: Atmospheric Black Metal
Label: Independent
Themes: Not officially listed
Years active: N/A
Breath of Wind is an atmospheric black metal project from Miass, distinguished by its unusually prolific output and its focus on nature‑driven, melodic, and emotionally uplifting soundscapes. Entirely composed and performed by Ruslan Rzaev, the project blends traditional atmospheric black metal with elements of ambient, post‑black metal, and nature‑inspired melodic passages. Breath of Wind’s music often evokes imagery of forests, mountains, seasons, and cosmic journeys, leaning toward a bright, expansive atmosphere rather than the depressive tone common in the genre.
The project emerged publicly in 2018 with the self‑titled EP Breath of Wind and the debut full‑length Battle. These early releases established the project’s signature style: soaring tremolo melodies, warm atmospheric layers, and a sense of motion and natural energy. The follow‑up Magic of Nature (2019) further developed this aesthetic, receiving attention in underground circles for its vivid, pastoral atmosphere and melodic richness.
From 2020 onward, Breath of Wind entered a period of intense productivity. Albums such as Sakura (2020), Feel the Wind (2021), and Coast (2021) showcased Rzaev’s ability to shift between seasonal moods—spring blossoms, oceanic calm, autumn melancholy—while maintaining a consistent atmospheric black metal foundation. The Place Where the Sun Rises (2022) and the singles released that same year (Sunlight, Foggy Summer Morning, Ocean) expanded the project’s palette into brighter, more serene territory, often bordering on instrumental post‑black metal.
The year 2023 marked another creative surge, with numerous singles exploring themes of cosmic travel, emotional introspection, and natural mysticism. Sunset Rays (2023) stood out as a full‑length that blended warm, glowing melodies with the project’s characteristic atmospheric intensity. Tracks like Moonlit Sorrow—which received a published review—demonstrated Rzaev’s growing refinement in balancing melancholy and beauty.
Breath of Wind continued evolving into 2024 and 2025 with albums such as Journey Through the Galaxy (2024) and Winter Silence (2025), alongside a steady stream of singles and EPs. These works leaned further into cosmic ambience, winter themes, and expansive melodic structures, solidifying the project’s identity as one of the most consistently active and nature‑focused atmospheric black metal acts in the Russian underground.
Despite its low‑profile presence and independent status, Breath of Wind has cultivated a dedicated following drawn to its serene, melodic approach and its constant stream of emotionally evocative releases.
Current member