Deviated Instinct were a crust punk/heavy metal act from Norwich formed in 1984 with a line-up of vocalist/guitarist Mid (a.k.a. Rob Middleton), singer Leggo, bassist Ian and drummer Mark. Deviated Instinct, debuting on the live circuit in September of 1984, released two demos in 1986 entitled 'Tip Of The Iceberg' and 'Terminal Filth Stenchcore'. Their first single on Peaceville Records was a limited edition of 1000 followed a year later by the debut album 'Rock 'n' Roll Conformity'. By this time bassist Ian had left to join Goober Patrol. After its release line-up problems ensued with vocalist Leggo departing for Filthkick necessitating Mid's adoption of lead vocals. Bassist Tom and drummer Sean also quit with the band reinstating former bassist Snapa.

The band's second album 'Gutteral Breath' pursued a slower, Doomier approach than previous outings. Prophecy Records would include the 'Nailed' EP tracks on a split 1991 album release shared with Greve and Devolution. After third album 'Definitive Instinct', Deviated Instinct split in 1991 with Mid and drummer Charlie forming Spinewrench. Snapa joined Optimum Wond Profile.

The posthumous 1993 compilation 'Re-opening Old Wounds', issued by Desperate Attempt Records, strangely attributed the final two songs, 'Pain' and 'Godsucker' to Deviated Instinct even though they were recorded by Leggo's band Acrasy.