Those searching for a good band to check out this weekend in Orlando will find a plethora of choices in not one, but two music festivals being held downtown.

The biggest and oldest of the two is the Florida Music Festival, now in its fifth year. The event runs May 17 - 20 among several venues, including the AKA Lounge, The Social, The Club at Firestone, Wall Street Plaza and the Downtown Media Arts Center (DMAC) — fifteen venues in all, and all within walking distance of each other along Orange Ave. or within a few blocks of it. And not only is the fest a great chance to check out both established bands and up-and-comers to the scene, but it’s also very wallet-friendly. A daily wristband for the showcases being held May 18-20 is only $10 a day, allowing admittance to all the showcases on that day — in essence a club-hopping pass. Even better, a three-day wristband pass is priced at $25, which is a $5 savings. Want to save even more? Buy your 3-day wristband at any Park Ave Cds location and it’ll only cost you $20 (that’s like getting a whole night free). Among the bands performing over the course of the FMF are Junkie Rush, Boxelder, Big 10-4 and Plain Jane Automobile. National act Third Eye Blind also makes an appearance on opening night at the Wall Street Plaza. Most venues are 18 and over for admission.

For those interested in more than just the bands, the FMF will have industry panels on May 19 and 20 at the Downtown Marriott. It’ll set you back $125 ($150 if you wait until day of), but if you’re serious about a music career, this is a great chance to network and learn. The 2nd annual Indie Film Jam will also be running the length of the FMF at the DMAC. This short film and music video competition features selections from across the country and viewers can vote for their favorites.

Normally the FMF would be the only fest in town this week, but due to a difference of opinion over money — one that Jim Abbott of the Orlando Sentinel explains well — Orlando music lovers will be blessed with two fests.

The second festival is spearheaded by former FMF supporter Jeff Hanson, the man who helped bands like Creed become household names. His alternative music fest, The First Annual Silent Majority Group Showcase, is just as the title suggests — a showcase for artists on his roster. It’s being held May 18 and 19 at Mako’s downtown and features artists like Nigels 11 feat. Chris Kirkpatrick, Corey Chowder, Social Burn and Melissa Crespo. Cover charge is $7 a night but includes free Budweiser and Idol vodka drinks from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. (you must be 18+ to attend, but of course, 21+ to drink).

For more info on the FMF, visit FMF2006.com and more info on Hanson’s fest, visit www.myspace.com/silentmajoritygroup.

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