Random I-Tunes Song of The Moment: Whiplash by Metallica

Michael Muldoon seems like a pretty nice guy and a smart guy, but man I got Whiplash (Thank you Metallica) trying to listen to him and keep up with him. He was all over the place talking so fast and not as clearly as he should (in my opinion) when teaching someone.

I'm not intending to pick on or insult him, but he was very hard to watch and listen to at times. I actually had to stop the video a couple of times because his on-speed-like energy was a lot bit overwhelming. I needed a break (more than once).

That said, if you can get through that, you'll find some value. First, a complaint/compliment rolled up in one. The company who produced this, System 6 Magic, also produced an effect, Juxtaposition by Devonte. Both products are $30. Both products are one-trick-ponies. Yet this one comes with a custom made gimmicked deck. I guess I'm too un-hip to understand how magic pricing works. This effect is better (in my opinion) than Juxtaposition and comes with a physical product, yet it costs the same. I gave Juxtaposition 2.5 stars. It might have made it into the world of 3 stars or more if the price were more reasonable . . . $15 to $20.

But, this review is about Modern Triumph, so let's talk about this. The complaint above is also the compliment for this effect (i.e., this effect is better and you get more stuff for the same price). Watch the demo. It's that clean. It's a very good way to do Triumph . . . if you don't do gigs where you need to do the same effect multiple times in one night. The reset on this is a bit of a pain. You certainly wouldn't be able to do this at every table. You need to go off to the side and take a couple of minutes to reset. This is also very much a one-trick deck, so you'll be adding a deck to whatever you're already carrying. And it's completely NOT examinable.

Other than the aforementioned "energy" of our host, I have no complaints about the DVD quality and so forth. I did, however, find the title to be a bit Ironic. There's nothing "modern" about this effect. It uses principles that all pretty much pre-date the Original Triumph by Vernon.

Having said all that, the effect is very clean (once you break in your deck). It looks like real magic. The ad copy is 100% accurate. The gimmicks are well made. And this is an effect that can really have a powerful impact on your reputation. It's a great closer. Also, I should mention that I was impressed with the homework on this one. I feel that Muldoon did a good job giving credit and history and background. That's a rare thing these days.

Bottom line: if you liked the demo (I did), and you can see yourself doing this version, I think you'll be happy with your bang for your buck.

Final Verdict:
3.5 Stars with a Stone Status of Gem.