Sound Waves by Jay Sankey

Effect

In 'Sound Waves,' the magician asks a spectator to think of a two-digit number. The spectator performs a simple mathematical calculation with the number, which leads them to a specific song from a pre-prepared list of popular tracks. Without knowing the number or the calculation, the magician reveals the exact song the spectator is thinking of. The effect is a blend of mentalism and music, creating a moment of astonishment and connection with the audience.

Full details

The trick involves a custom-printed list of songs, typically from a specific era like the 90s or 2016. The spectator is guided through a mathematical procedure: they reverse their two-digit number, subtract the smaller number from the larger, and use the result to find a song on the list. The magician, without knowing the number or the calculation, correctly identifies the song. The trick is repeatable with different song lists, making it versatile for multiple performances. It comes with a full-color printed song list, ready for immediate use.

Who should consider the trick

'Sound Waves' is ideal for magicians who enjoy mentalism and want to incorporate music into their acts. It suits performers who work in close-up, stand-up, or stage settings. The trick is particularly effective for those who can engage audiences with interactive and relatable content. It’s also a good choice for beginners, as it requires no advanced sleight of hand and comes with clear instructions.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is easy to perform, with no complex sleights or difficult moves. The main challenge lies in the presentation and ensuring the spectator follows the mathematical procedure correctly. The magician needs to be comfortable with audience interaction and maintaining a natural flow during the performance. The simplicity of the method makes it accessible to magicians of all skill levels.

What magicians say

Craig Petty from Magic TV initially had doubts about 'Sound Waves,' calling it "too procedural and non-examinable." However, after seeing the positive reaction from a non-magician spectator, he reconsidered, noting its "relatability and strong audience impact." Jay Sankey highlights the trick's adaptability, stating it can be presented in various creative ways, such as humming the tune or writing it down. Alakazam Magic UK praises its broad appeal, saying, "Who doesn’t love music?" and emphasizes its versatility for different performance settings. Overall, magicians appreciate the trick's simplicity, repeatability, and ability to connect with audiences through music.