A week that started with major tour announcements has ended with a reminder of why we love doing this in the first place: brilliant records, independent bands getting their chance and grassroots venues that need looking after. From Kings of Leon finding beauty in restraint to Bambambinos making noise in their own way, here’s Imminent Infinity’s Sunday Roundup for 8 November 2026.

Kings of Leon prove that less really can be more

Friday brought O My Beloved, and it’s a record that caught me completely off guard. Kings of Leon have stripped away much of their familiar stadium-sized sound in favour of something intimate, warm and wonderfully organic. There’s room for Caleb Followill’s voice to breathe, and the songs are all the stronger for it.

“Rose” takes us back towards the band’s rock roots, “Feel the Love” is beautifully delicate, and “Pretty Thing” shows another side of a group we thought we knew. I gave it 10/10, and I wouldn’t change a thing. Read the full Kings of Leon album review.

Grassroots spotlight: Bambambinos, Measure for Measure and studio20

Some of our favourite stories this week came from bands working much closer to the ground. In Saffron Walden, Bambambinos spoke to us about finding each other, their song “Lamia” and a vision of a more inclusive grassroots scene. There’s punk energy there, certainly, but also plenty of heart. Read our Bambambinos interview.

Closer to home in Colchester, Measure for Measure opened up about the wonderfully unlikely world of “Disney Metal”, darker stories and the nerves that come with stepping on stage. Their interview is here. And Kent quartet studio20 made an impressive first move with debut single “Penny Drop” and a deal with Communion. Get to know studio20.

Three very different acts, all with something worth saying. That’s what our grassroots coverage is for.

The venues that make music possible

There was a harder side to the week’s news. Proposed railway works have put several of Birmingham’s Digbeth nightlife venues under threat. No outcome is settled, but the prospect alone shows how vulnerable the places that give new bands a stage can be. Read the Digbeth story.

Thankfully, there was more hopeful news from Camden. The Fiddler’s Elbow has announced a partnership with Quiet Revolt Media Group that includes plans for a recording studio and new opportunities for grassroots musicians. Here’s what’s planned. And Brighton’s Canned Pineapple are using their UK tour to support local food banks — a reminder that music communities can make a difference beyond the stage. Read their story.

Elsewhere this week: Peter Doherty and Deep Purple

Peter Doherty announced ten UK dates for February 2027 with a new solo band featuring former Smiths drummer Mike Joyce. It’s a pairing that should make for an interesting live show. See the tour announcement.

On a more serious note, Deep Purple have postponed six November UK concerts while Ian Gillan recovers following a successful medical procedure. We wish him well. Our latest update covers the affected shows and ticket advice.

On the radar: Friday 13 November

There’s another strong release day ahead. Four records worth keeping an eye on:

  • Royal Blood — Dead Company: the Brighton duo’s fifth album promises a rawer, self-produced approach, with “Ten Over Ten” setting the tone.
  • Jake Bugg — Alamo: his seventh album heads into more personal, reflective territory, with a rootsy edge heard on “Never Can Tell”.
  • U2 — Carnaval De Luz: the band’s sixteenth studio album and their first full album of new material in nine years.
  • Krill — Secret Language: one for listeners who like their indie rock a little less predictable.

These releases are currently listed for 13 November 2026; dates and availability can change. We’ll be taking a closer listen as they arrive.

One last thing

It’s easy to focus on the big names, especially in a week that gives us a new Kings of Leon album. But the real strength of music is in everything happening alongside them: a new band finding its feet, a venue making room for local artists, or a small crowd giving someone the confidence to carry on.

That’s the music world we want Imminent Infinity to be part of. Missed last week? Catch up with the previous Sunday Roundup.

Release-date sources: Royal Blood official store; Record Store Day UK – Jake Bugg; U2 official website; Pitchfork release calendar.