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The Beats by Joshua Jay

Created by: Joshua Jay

The Beats is a card trick that presents a routine performed in reverse order, creating the illusion of traveling backward in time. It begins with the audience applauding, followed by the discovery of a card, a spectator selecting a card and shuffling the deck, and then 'rewinding' to reveal the selected card's disappearance and the reappearance of a previously placed card and watch. The effect culminates in the deck returning to its original order within a handkerchief-covered glass. This trick is best suited for parlor, cabaret, or stage settings and requires a table for performance. The package includes a 37-minute video tutorial, a Devil's handkerchief, two Vanishing Inc. stainless steel watches, an envelope with a small device for part of the routine, and two decks of cards (one requiring minor alteration and one fully gimmicked).

Key features

  • Includes everything needed to perform the trick except a glass

  • Best suited for parlor, cabaret, or stage settings

  • Requires a table for performance

  • Relatively easy to learn with practice on timing and presentation

  • Engaging premise with multiple moments of magic

Pros

  • Package includes high-quality props (excluding the glass)

  • Effect is relatively easy to learn

  • Engaging and fun premise

  • Good for openers in a longer set

Cons

  • Included device feels cheap compared to other options

  • More elaborate watch used by Joshua Jay in some performances is not included

  • Requires carrying around several items and a glass not included

Effect

The Beats is a timing-based technique used in magic tricks to create smooth and deceptive performances. It helps magicians control the flow of their routines by managing misdirection and pacing. In the context of Reverse Logic by Joshua Jay, mastering The Beats ensures that each phase of the trick unfolds naturally, making the impossible seem effortless to the audience.

Full Details

The Beats is not a standalone trick but a critical performance skill. It involves precise timing to guide audience attention where the magician wants it. In Reverse Logic, The Beats help synchronize multiple deceptive moments, such as revealing a card while secretly resetting another part of the routine. The technique requires no advanced sleight of hand but relies on practice to perfect rhythm and pacing.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Magicians who perform structured routines, especially in parlor, cabaret, or stage settings, will benefit from learning The Beats. It is particularly useful for those who want to enhance their misdirection skills without relying on complex moves. If you enjoy effects with layered reveals and need better control over audience focus, mastering The Beats will improve your performances.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Beats is not technically difficult but requires disciplined rehearsal. Sebastian notes that while Reverse Logic is easy to perform, success depends on practicing The Beats to ensure smooth transitions between phases. The challenge lies in making the timing feel natural rather than mechanical. Beginners can learn it, but experienced performers will refine it more quickly.

What Magicians Say

Sebastian describes The Beats as essential for Reverse Logic, stating, "It doesn't require any sleight of hand, it just requires practice on Beats." He emphasizes that mastering timing makes the trick undetectable. While the technique itself is straightforward, its effectiveness depends on the performer's ability to make misdirection seamless.

The Beats is a foundational skill that elevates many magic tricks, including Reverse Logic. By focusing on timing and audience management, magicians can create stronger, more deceptive performances.

What people are saying about The Beats

sebastiantoca9208 says...

The package includes everything needed to perform the trick, the props (excluding the glass) are of good quality, the effect is relatively easy to learn, and the premise is engaging. [...] The included device feels cheap compared to other options.

Review videos