Altern-8 is the iconic British electronic music duo formed in Stafford, England, in 1990 by Mark Archer and Chris Peat. Synonymous with the early 1990s rave scene, Altern-8 became instantly recognizable for their energetic live performances, futuristic tracks, and trademark chemical warfare suits and dust masks that blurred the lines between the performers and the ravers. Their music fuses breakbeat hardcore, acid house, techno, and rave influences, delivering anthems like “Activ 8 (Come with Me),” “Evapor-8,” and “Infiltrate 202,” which dominated the UK charts and captured the frenetic energy of warehouse parties and illegal raves.

The duo’s uncompromising, DIY ethos and playful rebellion against the mainstream made them cult heroes and key architects of the UK’s burgeoning dance scene. Altern-8’s brief but explosive initial run peaked with the release of their 1992 album "Full On... Mask Hysteria," a landmark of rave-era sound.

Despite their separation in the mid-1990s, Mark Archer continues to perform as Altern-8 (with Chris Peat’s blessing), keeping the spirit alive with both classic and new material, as well as legendary live sets. Altern-8’s influence is felt decades later, inspiring new generations of electronic artists and ravers. Their legacy remains a potent reminder of the raw, boundary-pushing creativity at the heart of UK dance culture.