The 29th CMJ Music Marathon is descending on NYC. This year, CMJ brings music, pop-culture, film, speeches and events to our fine city. But such fine fare is going to cost you.  A lot.  A regular pass is going for $500 and a student access pass will set your not-so-deep pockets back $300. Ouch. Still want to go? Get the almost-cheap film festival pass, priced at an agreeable $60.  There are dozens of films to check out so this is a good deal. Films to look out for are “The Messenger,” “Men Who Stare at Goats,” and “The Perfect Age of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Advice: Once your pass is purchased, don’t lose it. They have a strict ‘No Refund” policy. No replacements either.

There are tons of artists and things to do, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth, if you have the money, that is. There are too many artists to name but stand-outs are Rakim, Taking Back Sunday, Evan Dando (really?) and Deer Tick. While the city could use the economic boost and there’s obviously lots of fun to be had, I’m not sure if most people, outside of the industry, will be able to go. Last year, a reported 120,000 people attended the 4-day festival, which is impressive by any standard. Even with that in mind though, I don’t know too many people who can afford it. So far, they don’t offer one-day passes and because of this, I think they’ll miss out on a lot of business.

The festival runs from October 20th – 24th. If you’d like to purchase passes or would like more information on this year’s list of artists and films:

CMJ Music Marathon