Spring time is made for fresh starts and new beginnings. This weekend several of Orlando's Finest came out to show the Firestone and all that were in attendance what had been germinating in practice spaces, and finally taking bloom on this huge stage. It was a performer's paradise with great lighting, a retractable curtain, and tons of suggestive art on the walls, I knew we were in for something special. Thursday night was ladies night at the Firestone. Room90 started the show with a solid set of pop flavored rock. Though early in the night they were able win over the crowd and secure a slot in the Finals. Nunez, fronted by Linda Nunez, played very great set full of hooks and harmonies. Though not in the Finals expect to continue to hear great things from this act all summer long. MourningYesterday played so hard the lead guitarist all but destroyed his ax before the set was completed. Straight forward hard rock, complete with STP style bullhorn usage. They also will be performing once more in June at the Firestone. Though not going to the finals great performance awards go out to invisible ink, with their “Bong Song” and Vascular Symphony, whose great stage show and willingness to entertain caped off a great evening. Friday turned in the best group of performers all weekend. Great song writing and presentation was plentiful, with each group bringing their own style to the table. Silent Earth, in all the way from Jacksonville, started things off with and energetic opening performance. Pulse Nein followed and won the hearts of the Firestone staff who stood with hands raised after their arousing performance. A highlight of the evening came with Smilin McGee, whose crowd was so nice they helped out with the vocals throughout the night and landed them a place in the next round. Also sporting acoustic guitars was 5th Avenue Only's who brought back up with a Parker Fly carrying lead guitarist that stole the show near the end of the set. Punk was also represented with Rival Heroes and Whaystation giving the crowd a dose of youthful disregard. Taking the top spot of the evening was Echo Thieves. They brought their A game and put on a powerful performance, using a multiple layers of sound and strong vocals to capture the hearts of the crowd. I expect them to give the field a run for their money come June. Saturday night ended with 7 Blue Skies and Disypha taking the top Slots. Both had great stage shows and for the first time someone, being Mike the lead singer for Disypha, made use of their Senheisser wireless microphones and explored the vast dance floor of the Firestone. 7 Blue Skies guitarist also seemed to be warming up for his chance to win Best Guitarist at the Finals. Though not moving on, The Goldminer's garage country was a great change of pace and also Last Winter who caped off the night with guitar stunts and heart felt musing. Best Vocalist of the Night goes out to the boys of Ambiense who will continue to play, and I hope to see back next year. So, in the end a great weekend was had by all, and Orlando defiantly has a great pool of talent that I am sure we will be hearing about in months and years to come. And remember, for all coming out to the Semi''s this weekend, the show starts at 7 so get there early!