Black Midi guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin has died at the age of 26 following a ‘long battle with his mental health’

Black Midi guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin has died at the age of 26.

The musician had been struggling with his mental health for some time before his death.

A family statement shared on the now-defunct band’s label Rough Trade Records’ Instagram account on Monday 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 man finally succumbed; despite all efforts. 

‘Please take a moment to check in with your loved ones so we can stop this happening to our young men.’

Black Midi guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin has died at the age of 26 following a ‘long battle with his mental health’ (pictured in 2019)

A family statement shared on the now-defunct band’s label Rough Trade Records’ Instagram account announced the sad news on Monday 

Rough Trade added in the caption: ‘Rough Trade Records would like to extend deepest sympathy to the Kwasniewski-Kelvin family who have shared this statement on the tragic passing of founding black midi member Matt – an incredibly talented person who will be truly missed.

‘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.’

Kwasniewski‑Kelvin helped spark the beginnings of black midi back in 2017, teaming up with fellow BRIT School students Geordie Greep, Morgan Simpson and Cameron Picton to form what would quickly become one of the UK’s most talked‑about experimental rock outfits. 

The group made their first major splash with the frenetic single bmbmbm in June 2018, released through Dan Carey’s cult favourite Speedy Wunderground imprint, before graduating to Rough Trade the following year for their acclaimed debut album Schlagenheim.

By early 2021, the band confirmed that Kwasniewski‑Kelvin had stepped away to prioritise his mental health and would not appear on their forthcoming releases — a period that ultimately produced 2021’s Cavalcade and 2022’s Hellfire. 

The story took another turn in August 2024, when Greep revealed that Black Midi had quietly come to an end, clearing the path for his own solo ventures.