After two decades supporting others as a mental health nurse and community leader - and with a parallel career in the Midlands rock and metal scene - John Ellis is spinning a new chapter with the opening of Slow Century Records on Knowle High Street.

Set to open its doors midday on Saturday 8 November, Slow Century Records promises to be a welcoming space for vinyl lovers, collectors, and curious newcomers.

The shop will feature a curated selection of new and pre-loved records, focusing on rock, metal, prog, and alternative sounds, as well as music from Midlands-based artists.

John brings an extraordinary mix of experience to this new venture. For more than 20 years, he worked as a Registered Mental Health Nurse, leading community teams and supporting people across the West Midlands.

For the past 10 years John has built a career and a reputation as a DJ, Booker for festivals, promoter, and broadcaster known to thousands of listeners as Atom Heart Mutha.

On Hard Rock Hell Radio, he hosted a regular show (later released as a podcast on Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music), where he interviewed rock icons such as Dee Snider (Twisted Sister) and Riley Hawk.

John also promoted and booked acts including The Darkness, Skid Row, Wilko Johnson, and Hawkwind, and worked behind the scenes on album releases via Off Yer Rocka Records, releasing records for The Quireboys.

John’s DJ career has taken him from Academy Music Group O2 venues in Birmingham, Sheffield, and London, to rock festivals and events in Ibiza - spinning at Eden, Es Paradis, and boat parties across the Balearics.

Now, with Slow Century Records, he is channelling all of that experience into something close to home.

“Music has always been about connection - whether that’s helping people through a tough time or sharing a record that means something,” says Ellis.

“Slow Century Records is about slowing down, listening properly, and rediscovering the joy of music with other people.”

For more information, visit: slowcenturyrecords.com