Music Madness by Mariano Goni

Effect

The trick "Music Madness" by Mariano Goni uses a custom deck of cards and a smartphone app to create a surprising audio reveal. A spectator freely selects a card from the deck, which displays a year and its top three songs. They think of one song, and the card is returned to the deck. The magician then places their phone in the spectator's hands, and the chosen song starts playing automatically, accompanied by a retro cassette animation on the screen.

Full Details

The trick includes a custom deck of 53-56 cards, each featuring a year and its top three songs. The song titles are fully visible, while artist names are partially hidden to avoid copyright issues. The deck has hidden features to assist with the routine.

An app or web-based tool is used for the reveal. The magician inputs the selected song discreetly, and the app plays it on the spectator's phone. The app works on both Android and iOS but requires an internet connection. The cassette animation adds a nostalgic touch, though alternative visuals are available.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who enjoy interactive, music-based effects. It works well for performers who want a modern twist on mentalism, especially in social settings where music creates emotional connections. Those comfortable with basic card handling and app-based magic will find it accessible.

Difficulty

The app is straightforward to use, requiring minimal setup. The deck has markings that may take practice to read quickly, especially for numbers like two and seven. The routine involves simple card control and an easy input method for the app. Overall, the trick is rated as moderately easy, with most challenges coming from smooth performance rather than complex sleight of hand.

What Magicians Say

AlexisReviews praises the trick's innovative audio reveal and emotional impact, calling it "a fresh twist on card magic." They note the high-quality deck and clever app integration but mention the need for an internet connection and practice with the marked cards.

MonsterMagicShop appreciates the app's clever design and the surprise factor of the song playing on the spectator's phone. However, they criticize the deck's design, calling it "lazy" and unconvincing as a game. They suggest improvements to make the props feel more organic.

Both reviewers agree that the trick delivers strong reactions but could benefit from refinements in presentation and deck design.