Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, guitarist and founding member of the British experimental rock band Black Midi, has died at the age of 26. His family confirmed the news on January 12, sharing that he had been dealing with long-term mental health challenges.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin played a central role in the band’s early sound and direction. He was part of the original lineup that helped shape Black Midi’s reputation for intense live performances and complex, abrasive songwriting. The group gained early attention in the UK underground scene before breaking through internationally.
He stepped away from the band in 2021 to focus on his health. Black Midi later disbanded in 2024, bringing an end to a short but influential run. During his time with the group, Kwasniewski-Kelvin contributed to their debut album Schlagenheim, which was widely noted for its raw energy and technical ambition.
In their statement, his family described him as a deeply talented musician and a kind person.