The Musical Biography of Altern 8: From Rave to Fame

If you’re a fan of electronic dance music, especially the rave scene, you’ve probably heard of Altern 8. This British duo, consisting of Mark Archer and Chris Peat, made a name for themselves in the late 80s and early 90s by pioneering the sound of hardcore techno and acid house. Their music is upbeat, energetic, and infectious, guaranteed to get your feet moving and your body grooving. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at their musical biography, from their humble beginnings to their most famous albums and songs. So put on your dancing shoes and let’s get started!

Altern 8 was formed in Stafford, England in 1989, by two DJs and producers, Mark Archer and Chris Peat. They started out by playing in local pubs and clubs, experimenting with new sounds and beats. Inspired by the acid house scene that was sweeping across the UK, they decided to create their own music that reflected their love for the genre. Their first release was the EP Frequency in 1990, which included the now classic track Infiltrate 202. This track became an instant club hit and put Altern 8 on the map.

In 1991, Altern 8 released their debut album, Full On...Mask Hysteria, which featured their trademark blend of hardcore techno, acid house, and breakbeats. The album was a critical and commercial success and became an instant classic of the rave scene. It featured some of their most popular tracks, such as E-Vapor-8, Activ 8 (Come With Me), and Hypnotic St-8. These songs showcased Altern 8's ability to create infectious dancefloor anthems and cemented their place in rave history.

Altern 8's success continued throughout the 90s, with the release of their second album, Vibrations, in 1992, and several more hit singles, such as Evil Is Lurking, Brutal-8-E, and Frequency (Hallucin-8 Mix). Their music was characterized by heavy use of drum machines, sampling, and vocal samples, combined with a driving, fast-paced beat that was perfect for the dancefloor. They were a staple of the rave scene and played at some of the biggest clubs and festivals in the UK and Europe.

Despite their success, Altern 8 disbanded in 1993, with Mark Archer going on to pursue a solo career under various aliases. However, their influence on rave music and electronic dance music as a whole is undeniable. They were one of the pioneers of the hardcore techno and acid house genres and helped shape the sound of the rave scene in the UK. Their music continues to be popular today, with younger generations discovering their infectious beats and energetic style.

In conclusion, Altern 8 is a true legend of the rave scene and electronic dance music. Their music is a testament to the power of innovation, experimentation, and creativity, and continues to inspire and delight music listeners around the world. So if you’re looking for some high-energy tunes to get your body moving, check out Altern 8's classic albums and singles and experience the magic of rave music at its finest.