Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, the guitarist who was a member of acclaimed British experimental rock band Black Midi, has died aged 26.
A statement from 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.
“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.”
Sharing the statement on social media, Black Midi’s record label Rough Trade called Kwasniewski-Kelvin “an incredibly talented person who will be truly missed”.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin helped to make Black Midi into one of the most talked-about, musically adventurous rock bands in recent years, after meeting the other members at London performing arts institution the Brit School.
After being drawn to pop-punk and classic rock as a child, Kwasniewski-Kelvin became fascinated with noise and experimental rock after meeting Black Midi frontman Geordie Greep, and these elements – plus plenty more – coalesced into an energetic, progressive sound on their 2019 debut album Schlagenheim. The band earned a passionate fan following and the album was shortlisted for that year’s Mercury prize. It was also given Pitchfork’s “best new music” rating, with the album described as “magnetic and dazzling”.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin left the band in 2021, citing his mental health difficulties. The band said at the time they were “fully behind our best mate in his recovery”. They continued as a trio, recording two more studios albums before splitting in 2024.
• In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org
