Still reeling from the loss of Belle & Sebastian to Rough Trade, this week it was announced that 50% of MATADOR RECORDS has been purchased by the Beggars Group, setting up a potentially lucrative new distribution deal for the struggling indie label. Matador, always a stalwart on the US indie scene, has suffered great setbacks lately with the losses of Pavement (who disbanded), Arab Strap (who found a new home), and now Belle & Sebastian. It's hoped that the new partnership will encourage both Matador and Beggars to rebuild their usually stellar rosters. As for Matador, they're taking to print to play down the loss of Belle & Sebastian, saying in a press statement that they're "obviously disappointed," but that "we'll get over it!"