Sweet Poison Victim blends West African music with rock & roll

February 26, 2025

Listen to an interview with members of Sweet Poison Victim, an Indianapolis band known for their unique blend of West African music and rock and roll. The band also explores Latin American and Caribbean sounds, a reflection of the diverse backgrounds of the group’s members. 

The band’s leader, Kwesi Brown, was born and raised in Ghana. Brown’s background has shaped every aspect of the group’s sound and style, including their name. The band’s name was inspired by a medicinal alcohol that Brown calls “sweet poison”. The drink is steeped in a variety of roots and herbs, and Brown says that mix of flavors is reflected in Sweet Poison Victim’s sound. 

Hear music from Sweet Poison Victim’s new album Ringgold Avenue Highlife, along with excerpts from their recent appearance on WFYI’s Small Studio Sessions.