In the music industry, a compilation is a release by a record label that features a few tracks from a collection of different bands. These serve three different purposes:
- For record labels, it is a chance to showcase new material or acts. By placing a couple of tracks (perhaps new or unreleased) from established acts, then sticking a bunch of upcoming acts on the compilation, you get circulation for the new bands. People will buy based on the acts they know and get exposed to the new stuff.
- For independent artists, it is a chance to get a recording released and distributed under a label.
- For small labels, it is a way to generate capitol and garner a following.
Compilations are usually referred to as 'Comps'.