Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, the co-founding guitarist of the acclaimed English rock band Black Midi, has died at the age of 26, following what his family described as a "long battle with his mental health." The news, shared in a heartfelt statement by his family through the band’s record label, Rough Trade Records, on January 12, 2026, has left the music world reeling and fans reflecting on the profound influence he had on Britain’s experimental rock scene.
"A talented musician and a kind, loving man finally succumbed; despite all efforts," his family wrote in the public statement, adding, "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." According to Billboard, Rough Trade Records also extended their "deepest sympathy to the Kwasniewski-Kelvin family," calling Matt "an incredibly talented person who will be truly missed." The label urged anyone struggling with mental health issues to reach out to loved ones or organizations such as Mind, CALM, and Samaritans for support.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s journey as a musician began early. As reported by Pitchfork, he picked up the guitar in primary school, inspired in part by his father, who played in a party band and occasionally brought young Matt to rehearsals. By the age of 12, he was already soloing over blues and pop jams, laying the foundation for what would become a distinctive and daring musical voice.
His path crossed with future Black Midi bandmates Geordie Greep, Cameron Picton, and Morgan Simpson at the BRIT School in London, a renowned performing arts institution. Greep, in particular, helped expand Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s musical taste, introducing him to the world of "harsh noise, drone music, Merzbow," as Kwasniewski-Kelvin recounted in a 2019 interview with Pitchfork. Their shared passion for experimentation led to the formation of Black Midi in 2017.
The band quickly made a name for themselves in London’s vibrant live music scene, particularly at the Windmill Brixton venue. Their shows were legendary for their improvisational energy and genre-defying sound. Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s guitar work, often alternating between explosive post-hardcore riffs and abstract, noise-driven improvisations, became a defining characteristic of their music. As Guitar World noted, his interplay with frontman Geordie Greep—who typically played baritone guitar while Kwasniewski-Kelvin favored brighter tones on a Telecaster—created a unique sonic tension that set the band apart.
Black Midi’s debut album, Schlagenheim, dropped in July 2019 via Rough Trade to widespread critical acclaim. Produced by Dan Carey, a figure instrumental in nurturing the South London scene, the album was celebrated for its unpredictable time signatures, abrupt tempo changes, and fearless experimentation. Schlagenheim was shortlisted for the Mercury Prize, an honor reserved for the year’s most outstanding British albums. According to Billboard, the band’s rising profile allowed them to embark on major tours across North America and Europe before the COVID-19 pandemic put live music on hold.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s contributions to Schlagenheim were widely recognized as pivotal. Yet, as 2021 dawned, he stepped away from the band due to mental health struggles. "I have been taking some time off from the band as I have been mentally unwell," he wrote on Black Midi’s Facebook page in January 2021, adding that he hoped to return soon. His bandmates publicly expressed their support, writing, "We’re all fully behind our best mate in his recovery and can’t wait til we can all be + play together again soon!" They also asked for privacy on his behalf.
Black Midi pressed on, releasing two more albums—Cavalcade in 2021 and Hellfire in 2022. The latter debuted at No. 13 on Billboard’s Top Alternative Albums chart and propelled the band to the top of the Emerging Artists ranking. However, without Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s presence, the band’s dynamic inevitably shifted. As the remaining trio continued to tour globally, including stops in the U.S., Asia, Europe, and Latin America, the group eventually entered an "indefinite" hiatus in 2024, with members pursuing solo projects. Pitchfork reported that the decision to disband caught even the band members off guard, with vocalist Geordie Greep expressing surprise at the turn of events.
Despite his departure from Black Midi, Kwasniewski-Kelvin remained musically active. He made a guest appearance on Wu-Lu’s 2022 album Loggerhead and, in 2024, released a politically charged solo single criticizing the British Labour Party and advocating for a free Palestine. His willingness to engage with broader social and political issues underscored the depth and conviction that characterized his artistry.
Tributes have poured in from across the music community. Sleaford Mods’ Jason Williamson wrote, "Rest in peace, Matthew. Thoughts are with his family." DJ Mary Anne Hobbs shared, "I’m so very sad and sorry to hear this tragic news.. Rest in peace Matt, you beautiful genius." Fellow musician 72 Circles added, "RIP to a unique, genuine, and fierce guitar player." The outpouring of grief and admiration speaks to the indelible mark Kwasniewski-Kelvin left on those who knew him and those who were moved by his music.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s stage presence was as memorable as his recordings. He performed with Black Midi at the prestigious SXSW Conference and Festivals in Austin, Texas, in March 2019, helping introduce the band’s boundary-pushing sound to an international audience. His performances were marked by a fearless commitment to improvisation and a refusal to be boxed in by genre conventions.
The news of his passing serves as a stark reminder of the mental health challenges faced by many young people, particularly within the high-pressure world of music and the arts. Both his family and Rough Trade Records emphasized the importance of reaching out for help and checking in with loved ones. As Rough Trade poignantly stated, "If you are struggling with mental health issues please reach out to your loved ones or one of the range of charities such as Mind, CALM, and Samaritans who provide services and someone to talk to in any time of need."
For those seeking support, resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988 in the U.S.), UK Samaritans (116 123), and other mental health organizations remain available around the clock. The hope, echoed by Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s family, is that greater awareness and compassion can help prevent future tragedies.
Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s legacy is one of innovation, courage, and a relentless pursuit of new sonic frontiers. Though his time with Black Midi was cut short, his influence will continue to reverberate through the music world for years to come.
