Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, the co-founding guitarist of Black Midi, has died. Rough Trade, the band’s label, shared a statement by his family, writing, “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.” He was 26 years old.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin picked up the guitar in primary school, sometimes playing in his father’s party band. “I used to be a skater boy when I was young, listening to Green Day, Sum 41, Good Charlotte,” he told Pitchfork in 2019. He formed Black Midi alongside Geordie Greep, Cameron Picton, and Morgan Simpson after meeting them the BRIT School. The band became a staple of the South London music scene and performed regularly at The Windmill in Brixton. Having signed to Rough Trade, the band released their debut album, Schlagenheim, produced by Dan Carey, in 2019.
When Black Midi returned with 2021’s Cavalcade, Kwasniewski-Kelvin was absent from the band’s live shows, revealing that he had to take a step backdue to mental health reasons. “I’ve been taking some time off from the band as I have been mentally unwell,” he wrote. “Because of this, I haven’t featured on forthcoming material. I’ll be back soon.” Black Midi had said they were “fully behind our best mate in his recovery and can’t wait ’til we can all be + play together again soon.”
Black Midi went on an indefinite hiatus following the release of their third LP, 2024’s Hellfire. In 2022, Kwasniewski-Kelvin appeared on Wu-Lu’s first album for Warp, Loggerhead.
In their statement, Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s family described him as not only a “talented musician”, but also a “kind, funny man finally succumbed; despite all efforts.” They added, “Please take a moment to check in with your loved ones so we can stop this happening to our young men.”
Rough Trade Records also shared a statement, writing: “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.”
The label added: “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.”
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