Black Midi Guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Dies at 26
Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, guitarist and founding member of the influential U.K. experimental rock band Black Midi, has died at the age of 26. The news was confirmed on Jan. 12 by the band’s label, Rough Trade, which shared a statement from his family.
“It is with deep sadness that we, as a family, regret to inform you that Matthew Kwasniewski-Kelvin has died after a long battle with his mental health,” the statement read. “A talented musician and a kind, loving young man finally succumbed, despite all efforts. Matt was 26 years old. He will always be loved.”
The family also used the statement to urge others to check in on loved ones and to take mental health struggles seriously, emphasizing the importance of care and connection, particularly for young people.
Rough Trade expressed its condolences to Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s family and described him as “an incredibly talented person who will be truly missed.” The label also encouraged anyone experiencing mental health difficulties to seek support from trusted individuals or professional organizations.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin co-founded Black Midi in South London in 2017 alongside bandmates Geordie Greep, Cameron Picton, and Morgan Simpson. The group quickly gained attention for its abrasive sound, technical intensity, and genre-defying approach, becoming one of the most talked-about new bands to emerge from the U.K. underground in recent years.
Black Midi released their debut album, Schlagenheim, in 2019 to widespread critical acclaim. The record earned the band a Mercury Prize nomination and established them as a boundary-pushing force in contemporary rock. Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s angular guitar work was central to the album’s restless, confrontational sound.
In January 2021, the band announced that Kwasniewski-Kelvin would step away from Black Midi to focus on his mental health. While he did not perform on the band’s second album, Cavalcade, released later that year, he remained credited as a songwriter, underscoring his lasting creative role within the group.
Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from across the music community. Sleaford Mods’ Jason Williamson wrote, “Rest in peace, Matthew. Thoughts are with his family.” BBC DJ and broadcaster Mary Anne Hobbs described the news as “tragic,” adding, “Rest in peace Matt, you beautiful genius.” Fontaines D.C. bassist Conor Deegan III also shared a brief message of remembrance.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s death marks a profound loss for a band and a music scene shaped in part by his distinctive voice and musicianship. His contributions to Black Midi’s early work remain influential, and he is remembered by peers and listeners alike as a gifted artist whose legacy extends well beyond his years.
