Black Midi guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin dies at 26

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, the guitarist who was a member of British experimental rock band Black Midi, has died aged 26, his family said.

In a statement his family said he died "after a long battle with his mental health. A talented musician and a kind, loving man finally succumbed; despite all efforts." The statement added, "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, the band’s record label, shared the family message on social media and called Kwasniewski-Kelvin "an incredibly talented person who will be truly missed."

Kwasniewski-Kelvin helped make Black Midi one of the most talked-about, musically adventurous rock bands in recent years after meeting the other members at the Brit School. Drawn as a child to pop-punk and classic rock, he became fascinated with noise and experimental rock after meeting frontman Geordie Greep; those elements featured on the band’s 2019 debut album Schlagenheim.

Schlagenheim was shortlisted for the 2019 Mercury Prize and received Pitchfork’s "best new music" rating, with the outlet describing the album as "magnetic and dazzling." Kwasniewski-Kelvin left the band in 2021 citing his mental health; the band said then they were "fully behind our best mate in his recovery." They continued as a trio, recorded two more studio albums and split in 2024.

Key Topics

Culture, Matt Kwasniewski-kelvin, Black Midi, Schlagenheim, Brit School, Geordie Greep