Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, the 26-year-old founding guitarist of English rock band Black Midi, has died after “a long battle with his mental health,” his family said in a statement published by Rough Trade.
- Age: 26
- Role: Founding guitarist of Black Midi
- Notable work: Featured on 2019 debut album Schlagenheim (Mercury Prize shortlist)
- Left Black Midi in 2021 citing mental health struggles; continued session and solo work
- Appeared on Wu-Lu’s 2022 album Loggerhead
In a statement, Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s family wrote: “A talented musician and a kind, loving man finally succumbed; despite all efforts. He will always be loved. Please take a moment to check in with your loved ones so we can stop this happening to our young men.” The statement was published by the band’s record label, Rough Trade.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin rose to prominence as a founding member of Black Midi, whose abrasive, genre-defying sound earned rapid critical acclaim. He was prominently featured on the band’s 2019 debut album, Schlagenheim, which became a critical darling and was shortlisted for the Mercury Prize.
In 2021 he publicly stepped back from the band, writing on Facebook: “I’ve been taking some time off from the band as I have been mentally unwell. Because of this, I haven’t featured on forthcoming material. I’ll be back soon.” At the time his bandmates said they were “fully behind our best mate in his recovery and can’t wait ’til we can all be + play together again soon.”
After leaving the group, Kwasniewski-Kelvin continued to record and perform across projects and began exploring a solo path in 2024. He also contributed guitar to other artists’ records, including an appearance on Wu-Lu’s 2022 album Loggerhead.
The Legacy
Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin leaves behind a short but influential legacy:
- Schlagenheim (2019) — The debut that introduced Black Midi’s uncompromising sound and earned a Mercury Prize shortlist.
- Founding member of Black Midi — Helped shape a new wave of experimental British rock and inspired peers with his guitar work and stage presence.
- Collaborations and session work — Notably contributed to Wu-Lu’s Loggerhead and pursued solo projects, showing range beyond the band.
Social Proof & Reactions
News of Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s death prompted an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow musicians and music outlets. Rough Trade and his family issued the first public statements; bandmates and collaborators shared condolences and memories of his talent and kindness. On social platforms, fans posted clips of his aggressive riffs and onstage flips — hallmarks of his intense live presence — alongside messages urging greater awareness of mental health.
Earlier public moments — including a 2024 Instagram post by Black Midi singer Geordie Greep that briefly described the band as “indefinitely over” and a 2021 announcement of Matt’s hiatus — have been revisited by fans reflecting on the band’s tumultuous recent history. Many have echoed the family’s plea to check in with loved ones.
As details continue to emerge, the music community is expected to share further tributes. For anyone struggling, authorities and charities advise reaching out to trusted friends, family or professional support networks immediately.
Image Referance: https://popculture.com/music/news/26-year-old-rock-musician-dies-suddenly-rip-to-matt-kwasniewski-kelvin/