Let me preface this by saying that I am a big fan of ETMCM Volumes 1-6. Where else could one learn so many classic routines in one place. The "bang for your buck" ratio was definitely a plus. The latest three volumes in the series, however, do not live up to the standard set by the first six. I am not saying that the DVD's aren't worth your consideration, but if you are new to magic, you are better off purchasing the first 2/3 of the series first.2 Shuffles Harry (Harry Lorayne, Brother John Hammond)- This is an amazing Triumph effect with a great kicker ending. Two cards are selected and lost in the pack. The deck is then shuffled face up and face down. Finally the cards are magically caused to all face the same direction except for the two selections. It is then revealed that not only are all the cards facing the same way, but now the reds and blacks have separated. Michael teaches the Zarrow Shuffle which is needed for the effect.
Perfect Stop Trick (Ed Marlo)- This effect is similar to the Lazy Man's Card Trick taught in an earlier volume.
The Smith Myth (Fred Smith)- The effect is somewhat interesting. Two spectators select a cards which are returned to the deck. The deck is cut into two piles. One at a time cards are dealt face up from each halves. The two selections have somehow managed to arrange themselves in the same relative positions in their respective packets.
Mind Reading Chicken (Lamont Reams)- This is a very amuzing effect. It's a very cute, funny trick absolutely amazing to a lay audience. In short, an egg is broken and the name of a (forced) card is written inside in yolk.
Always Cut Cards (Larry Jennings)- A great four ace trick that could definitely be used with a gambling theme. Very simple and direct, but very impressive.
6-Cards Royal (Doug Edwards)- This is similar to Dan Garrett's Four Card Reiteration. Three Cards are removed from the deck, but when they are counted, the magician has four. He removes a card, but again the cards are counted as four. After a few such instances, the four card packet is changed into one card: the spectator's selection. Finally, the discarded cards are shown to form a Royal Flush.
Future Deck (Jack Fosberg)- I used to love this effect as a beginner. Definitely Easy To Master. This will appeal to many people. The spectator freely selects any card which you inevitably show you predicted from the very beginning.
Cards Across (Michael Ammar)- I've never used a cards across handling in my act. I've seen a few different versions, and this stands out as one of the best, but it's still not my style. This version uses envelopes.
$2,000 Transpo- Most people will have already seen this somewhere or another, but for the uninitiated, this is a very impressive feat. David Blaine even used this on one of his television specials.
Cheaters Poker (Jim Steinmeyer, Alan Wakeling)- For me this was a dissapointment. I've heard good things about the trick, but I was very unimpressed at least with this handling. Furthermore, it is not practical in most situations as an assistant (stooge) is involved.
Color Changing Deck (Paul Curry)- For those familiar with Dai Vernon's color changing deck routine taught in volume 3, I think you'll find this to be a superior version.
Overall this volume has some good material. As always Michael's teaching is superb. His style is relaxed and straight forward. Even when difficult material needs to be taught (i.e. the Zarrow Shuffle), his instruction is clear. If these effects sound interesting to you, you'll probably enjoy this volume. However, if you haven't picked up the first six DVDs, you may find your money is better spent by purchasing some of the previous volumes.
-Available from www.llpub.com
