After being in the dark for years, I was finally introduced to Matador Records.

As soon as I heard the group Pretty Girls Make Graves, I knew Matador had to be a most exceptional label. It has been about two years now, and I still feel the same way.

While browsing the shelves of Hastings records and tapes in Lubbock recently, I came upon a Matador Records compilation. I immediately bought it, unraveled the shrink-wrap, and threw it in my cd player. This Matador Compilation was compiled during the span of six years and 20-plus bands. Not only does this compilation come with previously unreleased tracks, a DVD is hidden inside with videos from some of Matadors most talented artists.

The first CD consists of some popular singles from previous and current Matador label mates. The first track is none other than Pretty Girls Make Graves. The first CD also includes tracks from Interpol, The New Pornographers, Mogwai, Guided by Voices, Cat Power, Mission of Burma, Yo La Tengo, and many more.

The second CD is full of unreleased tracks. Mogwai provides a re-mix of sorts to “Hunted by a Freak.” M.Ward and Yo La Tengo, also add to the list of amazing previously unreleased tracks. Pretty Girls Make Graves provided Matador with an unreleased track “ C-30,C-60,C-90 Go!” which will blow the minds of any Pretty Girls Make Graves’ fan away.

As for the DVD, Mogwai, Pavement, Cat Power, and Pretty Girls Make Graves all contribute their videos to this compilation. Mogwai’s video for “Stanley Kubrick” starts the DVD off with an exceptional wave of entertainment.

The master-minds behind Matador Records are two out-of-place kids who grew up to have the job most can only dream of. Chris Lombardi and Gerard Cosloy created Matador Records 15 years ago with the hope and ambition that one day Matador would be one of the greats.

I do believe they have reached their greatness. The company has few employees and has gone through more than 20 bands in its time. But it’s still one of the most talented labels out there.