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Marlo’s Alignment Double by Ed Marlo

Created by: Ed Marlo

Marlo’s Alignment Double is a sophisticated card magic technique designed for close-up performances. The trick involves handling the top two cards of a deck as if they were a single card, creating the illusion that only the top card is being revealed. This method is particularly valued for its fairness and lack of a 'get ready' phase, making it appear more natural and less suspicious to spectators. The technique requires precise hand movements and alignment, ensuring that the double lift is both visually convincing and seamlessly integrated into the performance. Ideal for intermediate to advanced magicians, this trick enhances the overall impact of card magic routines by adding a layer of deception that is hard to detect.

Key features

  • No 'get ready' phase, making it appear more natural

  • Requires precise hand movements and alignment

  • Visually convincing double lift

  • Ideal for intermediate to advanced magicians

  • Enhances the overall impact of card magic routines

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and visually convincing

  • Seamlessly integrates into performances

  • Adds a layer of deception hard to detect

  • Fairness in appearance due to lack of 'get ready' phase

Cons

  • Requires significant practice to master

  • Precision in hand movements can be challenging for beginners

Effect

Marlo’s Alignment Double is a card magic technique where the magician appears to turn over a single card from the top of the deck. In reality, the magician is handling two cards as one, creating the illusion that only the top card is being revealed. The move is designed to look natural and fair, making it a powerful tool for card tricks that rely on deception.

Full details

Marlo’s Alignment Double, also known as the Diamond Double, is a double lift technique that requires no pre-set "get ready" action. The magician pushes the top card off the deck with the thumb while simultaneously aligning the second card underneath it. The cards are then turned over as one, creating the illusion of a single card being revealed. The move involves precise hand positioning and subtle finger movements to ensure the cards stay perfectly aligned. This technique is known for its clean and fair appearance, making it a favorite among experienced magicians.

Who should consider the trick

Marlo’s Alignment Double is ideal for intermediate to advanced magicians who are already comfortable with basic double lifts and are looking to refine their technique. It’s particularly suited for those who perform in close-up or walk-around settings, where the natural and relaxed handling of the move can enhance the overall effect. Beginners may find the precision and coordination required for this technique challenging, but it’s a valuable skill to work toward as they progress in card magic.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Marlo’s Alignment Double is considered moderately difficult to master. It requires a high level of finger dexterity, precise hand positioning, and consistent practice to ensure the cards stay perfectly aligned during the move. The technique involves multiple subtle actions, such as pushing the cards off the deck, aligning them, and turning them over smoothly. While it may take time to perfect, the effort is well worth it for the clean and deceptive result it produces.

What magicians say

Jay Sankey, a well-known magician, describes Marlo’s Alignment Double as a "clean and fair" technique that looks natural in performance. He highlights the importance of practice and relaxation when executing the move, noting that it’s a reliable choice for experienced magicians. Sankey also emphasizes that the lack of a "get ready" action makes this double lift particularly deceptive, as it eliminates any suspicious pre-move preparation. Overall, magicians appreciate the technique for its visual impact and ability to fool even the most observant spectators.

What people are saying about Marlo’s Alignment Double

SankeyMagic says...

Marlo’s Alignment Double is one of these things again that whole Gestalt thing where you know all these little elements have to come together [...] it looks really fair and there's no get ready, making it appear more natural.

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