[uniqueuid]

Circuit bending means modifying electronics to make more "interesting" sounds.

For example, people have soldered new connections to chips and even drilled holes in them to create intentional distortions.

As to why artists use it - well, there's always a use for kitschy things in art. If you need a lo-fi sample, perhaps this is the tool to look for.

[edit] Here's an example of a modified gameboy (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJ7eM6FfTXQ)