Black Midi Mourns Loss of Guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin at Age 26

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, co-founding guitarist of the English experimental rock band Black Midi, has died at the age of 26 after a "long battle with his mental health," his family confirmed.

The heartbreaking news was shared on January 12 by the band's label, Rough Trade Records.

In a statement, Kwasniewski-Kelvin's family said, "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."

According to Billboard, Rough Trade also offered "deepest sympathy" to the family, calling Matt "an incredibly talented person who will be truly missed."

Kwasniewski-Kelvin helped form Black Midi while attending the BRIT School for Performing Arts and Technology in London, alongside vocalist Geordie Greep, bassist Cameron Picton, and drummer Morgan Simpson.

The band quickly gained a following in London's live music scene, performing at venues such as Windmill Brixton, and by 2019 they were touring Europe and the United States.

Black Midi's Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Left Band

Their debut album, Schlagenheim, was released in July 2019 through Rough Trade Records and showcased the band's experimental rock style.

Despite leaving the band after the first album due to mental health struggles, Kwasniewski-Kelvin still received songwriting credits on some tracks from the band's later projects, including Cavalcade (2021) and Hellfire (2022), which reached No. 13 on Billboard's Top Alternative Albums chart, USA Today reported.

In a 2021 statement, Matt explained his departure: "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."

His bandmates expressed full support, saying, "We are fully behind our best mate in his recovery and can't wait 'til we can all be + play together again soon."

Black Midi remained active until 2023, touring internationally, before taking a hiatus in 2024.

Management noted that the break allowed members to pursue solo projects while leaving the door open for future collaboration.