Title: Alchemist: Blossom Sensitive
Creator: Will Tsai
Publisher: Sans Minds
MSRP: $ 190
Skill Level: Intermediate / advanced
DVD Run time: 39 min

Type of effect: fork bending / metal bending

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Guarded closely in Will Tsai's professional working show for over 10 years, he is now unleashing the most awe-inspiring, self-bending metal effect to ever hit the shelves. 

If we truly had the power to bend metal, why stop at just one bend? 

Blossom will suck the wind out of your spectator as your psychokinetic ability contorts and flares the neck and every single tine of a simple dinner fork. The moment where they realized that the power of your mind is reconstructing the physical properties of metal is one that will live with them forever. 

The best part? This incredible moment can happen in their hands. They feel the movement of cold, hard steel manipulating right in their palm. It is a visceral moment that is almost too much to wrap their head around. 

Traditional metal bending cannot compete with the technology and secret contained within blossom. clean, real and elegantly beautiful, blossom is the next generation of self-bending metal effects and one that will solidify your reputation. 

How accurate is the ad copy? Very Accurate. Device comes in two options.

What's in the box? Blossom device, DVD, certificate of authenticity

Key points:

•   EASY TO PERFORM.
  


•   EASY TO RESET.
  


•   ACTIVATES ON BODY HEAT.
  


•   STAYS STRAIGHT IN ROOM TEMPERATURE.
  


•   MAGIC HAPPENS IN YOUR HANDS, THEIR HANDS OR HANDS OFF
  

How are the production values: Shot in HD, clear teaching, good angles and sound

Is it well made: the blossom device is well made and clearly has the weight and appearance of an actual fork. Device "responds" as it should under performance conditions.

Is it well taught: Will Tsai gives you his handlings for both close up and stage, however, I would have enjoyed "more" handlings (especially for closeup)

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): I liked the beauty of the device, the blossom device certainly gives you an attractive bend that looks impossible.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?" While it is true that the device stays "flat" in room temperate, for storage and transport you will need "assistance."

Does it "play big?" This is impossible looking magic and can certainly set you apart from the pack, just keep in mind for it to play the BIGGEST, your best arena is a stage with a lot of "extra help."

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) While Will gives you closeup handling, both the setup and transport of the device would keep me from saying this is practical.

Overall score: 9/10

 + If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGH43o8F3Jc

Title: Nomad Pad 2.0
Creator: Mathieu Bich
Publisher: Mathieu Bich
MSRP: $ 120
Skill Level: All
DVD Run time: 15 min

Type of effect: Peek Utility / Note Pad / Mentalism

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Four years after the successful launch of Nomad Pad... Presenting the next generation. We have worked with Nikola since the Nomad Pad was brought to the market, taking on board user feedback to correct the imperfections of the old version. Discover the result of this work with Nomad Pad 2.0 

You'll enjoy:

• its ease of use
  
•  the pocket size of the notebook
  
•  the reset integrated into the stylet
  
•  immediate access to the information
  
•  a paper refill included in the pack 
  

You'll discover:

• new, more direct handling.
  
• a slightly different size (+1 cm) to achieve a PERFECT width/length proportion (based on the Golden Ratio)
  
•  Better legibility of writing with a new, more precise plate
  
•  A better light gray/dark gray contrast (in the new plate) for use in all lighting conditions.
  
•  A 30% larger writing surface for the spectator
  
•  Anodized magnets integrated into the notebook design (therefore practically invisible)
  
•  More pages for a greater number of performances. 
  

How accurate is the ad copy? Spot on accurate, I didn't have Nomad 1 to compare, but this description is highly detailed. (the video above is for the Nomad 1 and the two are not THAT similar)

What's in the box? Included in the Nomad Pad 2.0: A Nomad Pad, a stylet, a paper refill and a link to a private website where you can download the instructions.

Key points: Performable right out of the box with only a few tips, highly versatile, will seamless integrate into several of your mentalist routines

How are the production values: Video download is available in two languages, English video has a voice over, with thick accent. One main angle/view.

Is it well made: This is highly well made, object feels weighty and sturdy like it could last for a long time.

Is it well taught: The video is only 15 minutes long and includes no effects

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): I love that this device is basically a "peek" device that requires no "stolen glances" you can literally stare at what the spectator has written or drawn and get no heat from it.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?" Note pad and pen could easily fit in a pocket

Does it "play big?" This is a utility/tool that every mentalist needs in their repertoire

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) I have not tested all lighting sources, but the transfer seems pretty distinguishable. I would add that if it's hard to read for you - you simply need to "reset" the device and the clarity should come back

Overall score: 9/10

 + If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLGTFrBj6W8

Title: Last Laugh
Creator: Mark Elsdon
Publisher: Alakazam
MSRP: $ 38
Skill Level: beginner / intermediate
DVD Run time: 28 min

Type of effect: stranger card routine

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Two decks of cards are introduced, both with different backs. One of the decks is removed from its box, shown to be 100% regular and shuffled. Your spectator now selects a card from the deck (sight unseen) and places it in his pocket. 

You now state you are going to attempt to cut to the matching card but from the other deck. 

Your spectators will be impressed by your skill when you accurately practice cut to both the jokers. What happens next is where the fun begins. You now start removing joker after joker from the deck. Your spectators will start to realize they've been had and it's a complete deck of jokers and just when the let their guard down you hit them. Yes every card in the pack is a joker...well almost every card. There is one card left face down on the table. 

For the first time your spectator removes and shows his card. You could now cut the tension with a knife, have them reach over and take a look at the card on the table. It's a match! 

Your spectators may have had a giggle throughout the routine but you certainly had the Last Laugh! 

Last Laugh is easy to do and comes complete with a special deck and a registration code that gives you instant access to a full training video to get you started right away!

How accurate is the ad copy? this is exactly what happens

What's in the box? Deck of cards - download code

Key points: practically self working, reset is quick, routine contains both humor and wonder.

How are the production values: HD quality DVD, multiple angles and careful teaching, everything you would expect from Alakazam

Is it well made: Bicycle stock cards

Is it well taught: Peter Nardi covers all the bases, he takes almost 30 minutes to teach you this simple effect by offering you tips, advice and even shows you a few forces.

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): I liked that this trick has an inherent patter and routine built into it's premise. This is a great effect for people who want to add a touch of laughter to their presentation.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?" All you need to do this trick is the special deck of cards.

Does it "play big?" The kicker ending of a stranger card is a classic in magic ala "Red Hot Mama" and Chicago Opener

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Obviously if you do tricks with a normal deck, this deck has to be carried on your person as well (which works as you need a contrasting deck to do this trick anyway)

How original is this idea? Expert Card Technique (chapter 13) has a en entire chapter devoted to the 'stranger card' plot.


Overall score: 9/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EdlHBRvOQk

Title: Out of Sleight
Creator: Cameron Francis
Publisher: Big Blind Media
MSRP: $ 30
Skill Level: all
DVD Run time:

Type of effect: DVD with 10 card tricks, all self-working

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Ten incredible full routines that require NO SLEIGHT OF HAND! Zero Sleights, 100% AWESOME! 

Employing both ingenious construction and the cleverest of devious methods, the material in 'Out Of Sleight' requires no sleight of hand skills, yet is utterly fooling. Using just some playing cards, a pen and a few business cards these ten routines will arm you with miracles! And with no worries about complicated sleight of hand, you can just concentrate on presenting your magic like a rockstar. 

Cameron Francis, your genial host, will not only train you up in the required handling for each routine, he will also unleash performance advice and show you how to improve your magic. So let's get OUT OF SLEIGHT! 

Featuring: 

Out Of This Packet
Either/Or
Coat
Sleightless Sightless
Creation
Find The Kings
Humming Words
Gemini Annihilator
Coupling
Date Fate 

How accurate is the ad copy? Spot on accurate, these effects are not only easy to do, but they are also not "throw aways" - there is something on here for everyone.

What's in the box? DVD only, no gimmicks or gaffs

Key points:

• 10 great tricks
• no filler
• easy to learn
• it's even fun to watch!

 
How are the production values: Shot in HD, well lit, well microphoned and the assistants who help Cameron on this are gorgeous! (so everything is enjoyable to look at)

Two studios, one for performances and a second "kitchen" area where Cameron and Liam Montier go over the effects

Is it well taught: Cameron really knows his audience and caters to it. No long drawn out explanations where he wastes your time, he gets right to the explanation and very quickly you are grasping the mechanics of each effect.

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): I loved that this was a combination of both some classicly published effects (with a twist) some familiar "plots" and some brand new stuff I'd never seen.

Does it "play big?" I think a lot of the card jockey's run away from the words "self-working" as if a self-working effect couldn't produce a strong reaction. Sure, you probably could not fool a magician with some of these, but several on here could fry a lay person easily.

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) That's the best part of this DVD, so many of these are practical miracles for the times when someone throws a deck of cards at you and says, "do a card trick."

Overall score: 10/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDCsCcyI5lc

Title: P'Ink
Creator: Ran Pink
Publisher: Ran Pink Presents
MSRP: $ 30
Skill Level: all
DVD Run time: 87 minute Video Download that teaches you everything you need to know and more. 

Type of effect: Reappearing Ink / Disappearing Ink

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Words change, drawings animate, spirits talk, matches un-burn.  Ran Pink understands the mind of a creative magical ARTIST. After years of research and development, he's created something that generates "infinite possibilities" with one very special device. Until now only a handful of magicians and mentalists have had access to P'ink. It's been used for magic on television, youtube, stage and now it's time to see what you can do with it. 

 Reburn: Burn a match, heal it in a spectator’s hand, and relight it.

 How To Read: Make spectators lose their ability to read like never before.

 Card Morph: One card prediction changes to another like a special effect from a movie!

How accurate is the add copy?

Everything is spot on, advertisement and write up is exactly what happens

What's in the box?

One specially formulated custom ink marker that allows you to take control over your drawings like never before! Writing vanishes and appears like a cinematic special effect. This can be done in secret for devious mentalism or right under a spectator's nose for some eye candy.  Beside the pen are a rolled paper instruction sheet that also includes the download code for a video.

Key points:

Perfect for creating powerful magic for any audience. From effects that can be pulled from your wallet in a casual setting to routines for formal performances.  Portable, subtle, and customizable.

How are the production values:

High quality HD teaching and viral hand held performance shots, multiple angles, color, black and white - this video has it all.

Is it well made:

The pen is completely safe and non-toxic and comes from over five years of research.

Is it well taught:

On the download you get 37 minutes of effects and explanation, including care and usage of our device. There is also a brainstorming section at the end with Andrew Gerard and Robert Smith. The video also includes troubleshooting at the end, including Ran's own request that he'd like to hear from you.

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked):

With so many one hit wonders on the market, this is a breathe of fresh air. This more than a magic trick, this is a tool that every magician should "literally" have in their back pocket.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?"

It's just a really big pen, it could go in any pocket. But for the most part, there is "typically" some set up involved, so the pen work needs to be either done at home, or in secret.

Does it "play big?"

With some of the mental effects and even the Reburn effect, I think you can get some choice reactions.

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?)

This pen and it's make up uses real world scenarios and elements. This is not one of those devices that only works in sub-arctic temperature or in zero gravity.

How original is this idea?

If you think this is a FRIXION pen, it's not. In fact it's the "opposite" of that.

Overall score: 10/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_PK81FdCS8

Title: At the Table Lecture
Artist: Ekaterina
Publisher: Murphy's Magic
MSRP: $20
Skill level: all
DVD run time: 3 hours

This AT THE TABLE EXPERIENCE with Ekaterina, will have a little bit of everything for everyone. Ekaterina, who appeared on the SyFy hit show, Wizard Wars, will be giving you an exciting class in cardistry, magic & showmanship. There will be something here for both the complete beginner as well as the more advanced. So break out your cards, and prepare to learn everything from basic flourishes to enhance your magic, to the more advanced and difficult moves to just plain show off. 

Ekaterina will also be covering magic for both close-up and stage as she tips one of the effects for the stage that she performed on Wizard Wars. Ekaterina will also perform and explain a few card effects which have never seen print until this event. One of them fooled Penn & Teller! Mix that in with a funny rope-escape routine, and you have yourself an AT THE TABLE EXPERIENCE that cannot be missed!

Title: Unlink
Creator: Jordon Victoria
Publisher: PCTC Productions
MSRP: $ 35
Skill Level: beginner / intermediate
DVD Run time: 32 min

Type of effect: Card trick / card utility / card prop / sandwich effect / card vanish

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Unlink is not an effect... it's a TOOL for every magician! The Unlink gimmick is very versatile and it's different from what you can find in the market (Twizted by Eric Jones, Shin Lim vanishing card,...). Here you have (for example) a freely selected card that is signed and placed in between two other cards. The signature is VISIBLE until the vanish and then you can make it appear in your back pocket 

How accurate is the ad copy?

Accurate, nothing shady here.

What's in the box? Gimmick, DVD and extra material to repair your gimmick

Key points:

- Endless possibilities
- Cards can be SIGNED and visible until the vanish
- Handmade gimmick
- DVD instruction with 7 angles to follow easily the explanations

How are the production values:

Not so good, especially in the age we live in now, where magic videos get better and better. Low lightning plus the camera angle is off and you can see a lot of "flashing" in the teaching.

 Is it well taught:

On the DVD there is no live performance,  no vocal teaching, and it's all done with subtitles. Of course the magic doesn't suffer from this and you will still learn all that you need to know, just be aware.

Is it well made:

The gimmick is very well made, but it's a gimmick that undergoes a lot of stress, and so I am guessing it will need repair work over time.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?"

This is easily a packet trick and you would probably care it as such, or as the top card in your deck.

Does it "play big?"

If you've seen the performance, then you'd agree this looks like real magic and should get HUGE results.

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?)

This takes some set up to get into, but there is some tips on getting into the effect "on the fly" but I think this will work best as a "first" or "last" effect and it does end a little dirty.

How original is this idea?

Jordon admitted he was borrowing an idea from Twizted by Eric Jones - which is a Mark Mason gimmick

Overall score: 8/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTOGHGsJ3CQ 

Title: Gone
Creator: Daniel Bryan           
Publisher: Alakazam Magic
MSRP: $ 23
Skill Level: beginner / intermediate
DVD Run time: 32 min

Type of effect:  Card Trick / Packet Trick / Vanish / Transformation

Manufacturer's Write Up:

After displaying five random cards from a pack, you visually cause one of them to vanish! You now place the remaining cards in to your spectators hands and explain that you are now going to do the impossible and cause the final 4 cards to vanish, after a moment of concentration you tell the spectator that all the cards are now gone, they are not impressed as they can feel them between their hands however when you turn the cards over all that is remaining on the faces are the letters G.O.N.E!! 

Gone is the brainchild of Daniel Brian and comes complete with everything you need to perform this incredible effect. With the custom printed cards supplied you will have the power to create so much magic, right in front of your spectator's eyes.

Multiple handling's and routines.

With GONE You can create 2 incredible moments of magic right in front of your spectator's eyes. 

How accurate is the ad copy?

Both the ad copy and the advertisement are straight forward and accurate. There is no shady video editing - what you see, is what you get. Plus, on the magic forums and initial reviews, there seems to be a lot of happy customers who have purchased it.

What's in the box?

Your packet trick of cards made from rider backs (you can purchase red or blue) and a download code for the 32 min video

Key points:

Easy to do

Built in comedy routine

Comes complete with custom made gimmicks

"Gone" ticks all the boxes and is a worthy addition to any magicians pocket. 

How are the production values:

This is where the trick "suffers" a little bit for me. Peter Nardi does a brief introduction and teaches at the beginning in front of the Alakazam fireplace for about 4 minutes and then Daniel Bryan teaches you in his living room for the rest of the video. Peter is microphoned and is shot in HD, but Daniel's teaching portion is shot in a living room, using one single tripod camera, no microphone (so it's a little echo-y) and not as well lit.

Is it well made:

The gaff cards are made from standard retail Bicycle 808 stock

Is it well taught:

With a packet trick like this, it's a nice surprise to receive over 30 minutes of video. Plus Daniel gives you several performance ideas with room to add your own flair and more advanced sleights for the more experienced performer.

Peter Nardi adds a nice little bonus idea at the beginning that would work well for  table of people - and Daniel adds a bonus comedy routine handling at the end.

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked):

I liked the abundance of teaching, lots of great ideas, I also liked the gaff cards themselves, very well made. This is a great packet trick that works well for a group of people or one-on-one.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?"

Absolutely, only the supplied cards are needed,

Does it "play big?"

Several reviewers have seen good reactions from this trick, the two punch effect really feels like you get two tricks for one, so it's certainly elevating the circumstances.

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?)

Yes. This trick doesn't require that you wear a jacket or use a black table cloth! Ha ha. All you need is the cards supplied. Can be done in any lighting, inside, outside, upside down.

How original is this idea?

Granted there are other packet tricks that are similar, Gary Freed's NFW comes to mind.

Overall score:  9/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ve4wchys5MM