In 2009, British DJ Bradley Zero began hosting his first radio shows on NTS while simultaneously organising small parties. Despite modest resources, the events developed a unique charm – vinyl-only sets, no pre-announced time slots, and a warm, family-like atmosphere attracted many to the Peckham area in South London. »That was what I call the golden era. Those early Pool Hall days were a very special time – the ›Peckham renaissance‹.« The parties grew out of a close-knit community of art students, musicians, and designers. »I never really felt like a promoter – more as a facilitator at the heart of this community that built around house parties, private views, local bars, and live shows,« Bradley Zero reveals.
»The creative community roots of the project have informed and inspired everything we’ve done since. They also laid the foundation for expanding into other areas, such as mentorship programmes and brick and mortar venues,« he continues. Five years later, this evolved into a key network within London’s club scene, with a rapidly growing international following. Under the name Rhythm Section International, Bradley Zero has since managed a record label, club nights, concert series, and radio shows. The »International« in the label name was intentionally chosen from the start, reflecting the exchange with scenes across the globe.
10 Years Of Rhythm Section International
Vitamin D
I Need Space To Dance
Tanzen
Alongside this, Bradley Zero manages studio spaces and, together with Colour Factory founder Nathanael Colours, has created a community hub. Jumbi is a hi-fi music bar and restaurant located in Peckham. In its library, visitors can browse through Bradley Zero’s entire record collection.
The Peckham-Renaissance
The first release from Rhythm Section International – »Rye Lane Vol. 1« by British beatmaker Al Dobson Jr. – featured many of the elements that would go on to define the label’s path: broken beats, hip-hop and soul influences, dancefloor moments, introspective ambient detours, and a blend of organic and synthetic percussion. A groovy record that not only defined the label’s sound but also showcased a Peckham artist capable of reflecting the energy and warm vibe of the street. Everything is done in-house here – from the record artwork to pressing and shipping.
»I think the label means different things to different people – sonically speaking. But I’m proud of the fact that we are difficult to pigeonhole, and I find it constantly inspiring that we can move from rap to jazz, to techno, and to rock with relative impunity.«
Bradley Zero
The portfolio of Rhythm Section International includes over 100 releases, featuring artists such as Chaos in the CBD, Cousin Kula, Nicola Cruz, and Prequel. A clear goal has always been to connect with other smaller scenes around the world. »We end up working with emerging talent in Melbourne, Berlin, Amsterdam, and NYC – and, in turn, they find fans in London. NTS Radio provides us with a platform to share and promote these new discoveries. It allows listeners to connect.«
The COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit, and fluctuating vinyl sales presented the team with financial challenges and required a creative reorientation. New revenue streams, such as a paid mentorship programme and an increased focus on digital music distribution and merchandise, are now ensuring the label’s survival.
Rhythm Section International places the community at its core, with the community supporting and sustaining the label. Despite its global reach, it remains true to its origins. This combination of authenticity, openness, and musical quality has made Rhythm Section an important institution over the past ten years.
