Easy Tones by Rich Relish and Craig Petty

Effect

Easy Tones is a mentalism deck disguised as a set of color swatches, similar to those found in paint stores. The performer presents the deck as a simple collection of colors, allowing spectators to freely choose a color or name. Through psychological techniques and clever deck construction, the magician accurately predicts or reveals the chosen color, creating a strong impression of mind-reading. The effect is highly visual and relatable, as audiences naturally connect colors with emotions and personal experiences.

Full Details

The Easy Tones deck consists of 40 color swatch cards, with additional crib and reveal cards included for performance flexibility. The deck is divided into two functional halves:

• A forcing deck – Allows the performer to subtly guide the spectator to a predetermined color while maintaining the illusion of a free choice.
• A marked and stacked deck – Features hidden markings and an alphabetical arrangement, enabling the magician to deduce information about the chosen color.

The deck is designed to resemble a graphic designer’s tool, adding plausibility to its use in casual settings. The included tutorial, taught by Rich Relish and Craig Petty, covers multiple routines, such as:

• Mind Reading vs. Prediction – A two-phase routine where one color is revealed as mind-reading and another as a pre-written prediction.
• Color at Any Number – A classic mentalism effect adapted for the deck.
• Tossed Out Deck – A hands-off method where a spectator’s random toss leads to a prediction.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Easy Tones is ideal for:

• Mentalists looking for a fresh alternative to traditional card-based routines.
• Close-up and walk-around performers who want a compact, engaging prop.
• Stage and parlor magicians seeking a visual and interactive effect.
• Beginners to intermediate performers, as many routines are self-working or require minimal sleight of hand.

Difficulty

The deck is rated beginner to intermediate in difficulty. While some routines are self-working, others benefit from basic card handling and presentation skills. The marking system is subtle but easy to read with practice. Memorization of color names is optional, as crib cards and built-in aids are provided.

What Magicians Say

• Rich Relish (co-creator) calls it his go-to routine, stating: "I perform this at every table—the reactions are just different."
• Craig Petty praises its versatility, adding multiple routines to the tutorial and calling it "one of the strongest mentalism effects of the year."
• Sebastian Toca rates it 9/10, highlighting its "phenomenally good" main routine and suitability for close-up, parlor, and stage.
• David (Magic Orthodoxy) notes that while some routines feel similar to other decks, the quality and concept make it "a worthwhile purchase for mentalists."
• Alex Kirk (Monster Magic) advises performers to "avoid overusing it like a card trick—lean into its innocent paint sample aesthetic."

The deck is widely praised for its visual appeal, strong audience reactions, and adaptability across performance styles. If you want a mentalism tool that feels fresh and connects deeply with spectators, Easy Tones is a compelling choice.