Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, co-founding guitarist of the experimental rock band Black Midi, has died at age 26 after a long battle with mental health issues. His family confirmed the news on January 12, 2026, via the band's label, Rough Trade. The musician, who contributed to the group's acclaimed debut album, left the band in 2021 for health reasons.
Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin formed Black Midi in 2017 with Geordie Greep, Cameron Picton, and Morgan Simpson while attending the BRIT School in London. The South London-based band quickly gained attention for their energetic performances at venues like Brixton’s Windmill, blending post-hardcore riffs with abstract noise. They signed to Rough Trade and released their debut album, Schlagenheim, in 2019, produced by Dan Carey. The record earned rave reviews and a Mercury Prize nomination, helping launch a wave of British experimental rock alongside acts like Black Country, New Road and Shame.
The band toured North America and Europe before the coronavirus pandemic halted activities. By early 2021, with the release of their second album Cavalcade, Kwasniewski-Kelvin was absent. He announced his departure in January, stating, “I have been taking some time off from the band as I have been mentally unwell,” and expressed hope to return soon. The band supported him, saying, “We’re all fully behind our best mate in his recovery,” and noted the lengths friends would go to help.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin received songwriter credit on Cavalcade but did not perform. Black Midi's third album, Hellfire, followed, after which the remaining trio parted ways indefinitely in 2024. In the interim, he played casually in London, including a guest spot on Wu-Lu’s 2022 album Loggerhead, and released a solo recording in 2024 criticizing the British Labour Party and advocating for a free Palestine.
His family’s statement read: “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. A talented musician and a kind, loving young man finally succumbed; despite all efforts. Matt was 26 years old. 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.”
Rough Trade expressed “deepest sympathy” and called him “an incredibly talented person who will be truly missed.” Tributes poured in, including from Sleaford Mods’ Jason Williamson: “Rest in peace, Matthew. Thoughts are with his family.” BBC DJ Mary Anne Hobbs added: “I’m so very sad and sorry to hear this tragic news.. Rest in peace Matt, you beautiful genius.” Fontaines D.C.’s Connor Deegan III simply wrote: “Rest in peace x.”
The label urged those struggling with mental health to reach out to loved ones or organizations like Mind, CALM, and Samaritans.
