The Rhythm Factory in Aldgate is located in a rather run down area, and from the outside it looks rather run down, too. Passing it by would be a shame though, as the Rhythm Factory has a bit of a reputation for fantastic music.

In fact many a big name in music was discovered here. It is considered in many ways to be a barometer for musical trends to come, and you will find music industry types as well as regular folks flocking to this club to sample its eclectic offerings.

The two back rooms serve as the music venues and are open at night when the Rhythm Factory transforms from a Thai café to a legendary underground entertainment venue.

The line up during the week is a mix of music and arts, and they sponsor an Open Mic night, featuring poetry readings, comedy, and more.

There is a night of free admission called Let Them Eat Gak where you can come and see five up and coming alternative bands play. Music during the week tends towards soul, funk, jazz, gentle hip hop, and rock.

Pete Doherty plays at the Rhythm Factory regularly, and other nights you might see bands like The Shoestrung, Dan Smith, Façade, and the Savage Nomads.

On weekends, things really get going with more hardcore beats like drum ‘n bass, breakbeats, and house at their weekend Club nights. The music plays until dawn, so be ready to dance all night long.

Inside, things look a bit dowdy and light on the niceties (the cloakroom is nothing more than a coat rail), but this only serves to remind you that you are in the gritty East End. The front room has plenty of seating and is open all day, serving excellent fresh coffee and Thai food to a mixed crowd of people who drop in to have a meal or maybe just sit with a book and enjoy a coffee.

At night things can get quite crowded, with long queues to get in on Club nights, so be sure to arrive early on weekends.

The Rhythm Factory in Aldgate has been described as the friendliest and most accessible club in the East End, which should add up to a great night for almost anyone.

Visiting The Rhythm Factory

16 - 18 Whitechapel Road, Tower Hamlets, E1 1EW

Telephone: 020 7375 3774

Email info@rhythmfactory.co.uk

Photo courtesy: Gill Rickson

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