Test Dept

Baba Yaga's Hut presents Test Dept at Oslo Hackney on 8 October 2026 at 18h30. From the outset, Test Dept are known for their innovative use of found objects, scrap metal and industrial detritus as instruments. The group's distinct blend of aggressive percussion, noise, distorted samples and experimental soundscapes also reflects their commitment to challenging the status quo, notably in 1984 when they ventured into the industrial communities of Britain to perform live with the South Wales Striking Miners' Choir, raising money and awareness for that cause.

Envisioning themselves as part of a broader cultural movement exploring the intersection of art and social change, their collaborative instinct led to the formation of the Ministry of Power, an umbrella organisation for working collectively on multidisciplinary projects that integrated music, movement, theatre, film and political activism. This led to large-scale multimedia productions in disused industrial spaces and unusual environments.

2015 saw the publication of a book entitled 'Total State Machine' that chronicled Test Dept's history, philosophy and work, while the 'Disturbance' album released in 2019 incorporated expansive electronic production and was promoted with a tour. In 2023 the group was commissioned by the arts organisation A/POLITICAL to create the new large-scale work 'Furnace' in an old iron foundry in southern France. This ongoing relationship has further works in development.

In 2025 they linked up with Canadian label Artoffact Records to commence a back catalogue reissue campaign, the first release of which was the 4-CD set 'Industrial Overture' covering their earliest material and including rare and unreleased recordings, among them two John Peel sessions. They also re-emerged with a new approach to live performances: an electronically focused set incorporating film and acoustic and percussive instrumentation.

A new album is in the works for 2026, with further reissues and live appearances planned.