Above the Fold by Rich Aviles

[CalebWiles]

Rich Aviles… Rich Aviles… Rich Aviles

It’s probably a name you haven’t heard before. Well, now you have… three times. Get used to it; you’ll be hearing it a lot more from now on. Why? Let me tell you.

I first met Rich at the SCAM Convention in January of 2008. When we sat down to session, he proceeded to fry me with great idea after great idea. Since then, we’ve become good friends. He has continued to impress me with both his humor and creativity when it comes to magic.

A long while ago, Rich told me that he was working on writing up some of his original routines. I was so excited to get my hands on his material that I continued to hound him via email about when it would finally be released. Much to my chagrin, he was patient about making his first impression to the magic community. He didn’t want to make the mistake of rushing into the magic market like so many others do these days. So, he continued to work and I continued to wait… and wait… and wait.

Imagine my excitement when I heard a rumor that Rich would be the “newcomer” lecturer at the annual Tri-C magic convention at which I was performing. Imagine my further excitement when I got the news that Rich would be publishing his new book through Vanishing Inc Magic. My wait was finally over… and it was worth every minute.

Rich gave an outstanding lecture at the convention. It truly had something for everyone. From a KILLER self-working prediction effect to a CRAZY color change (that looks more difficult than it is), all in attendance were impressed with the material offered. After the lecture, I rushed to the table and made my purchase of Rich’s new book, Above The Fold.

If you’ve ever been to a convention, you know how crazy busy you are the entire time you’re there. It’s a wild ride that doesn’t include much time for the simple things… like sleep. This convention was no exception. So, after only two hours of sleep on the final night, I headed to the airport to catch my flight home. I boarded the plane and with a bag full of new books from the dealer’s room, I pulled out Above The Fold. Over the next few hours, I poured over the contents constantly amazed at the quality of the material. Here are a few of my favorites.

Fax Machine Change- This is one of my favorite color changes. It’s funny to see in action. It’s magical, and not that difficult to do. In effect, a card changes as it animates through the deck. You can download a free preview of this color change by checking Vanishing Inc. Magic - amazing magic tricks, books, DVDs and downloads - Vanishing Inc. Magic.

Pocket Protectors- This is the killer prediction effect I mentioned early. Rich has taken a relatively unexplored idea by Alex Elmsley and turned it into a real showpiece. It is self working; it plays equally well in close up or parlor situations; it will fool magicians; it will entertain laymen; it seems absolutely impossible. A lot of guys are going to start doing this. I will be one of them.

Bystander- The magician hands the cards to the spectator… and they do everything. They select a card and lose it in the deck all on their own. The magician announces that earlier he placed two Jokers face up in the deck. Amazingly, when the cards are spread, it is revealed that the spectator placed her selection directly between those Jokers. Finally, the magician reveals that he predicted everything from the very beginning.

Big Black Arrow- This is a trick with an iPod or iPhone (or any other device that supports video) that mixes technology with sleight of hand. There are plenty of trick apps on the market, but most of them just make the audience believe that the technology is responsible for the magic. This is not the case with Rich’s trick. The audience will have nowhere to run.

Overall, the book features seven moves, ten full routines, and two quick ideas for handling a couple of common problems for cardmen. The explanations are clear and fun to read as Rich infused the text with his clever wit and personality. He also has a background in design which means that the illustrations and layout are top notch. I’m totally impressed with everything about this book. Highly recommended.

- Available from Rich’s site and Vanishing Inc Magic

For more reviews, visit my blog at CalebWilesMagic.com

[Blindside462]

I agree fully with Caleb. I pre-ordered this book on a whim and it has some very creative thinking. It's very easy to follow. He also has a hilarious DIY wallet I think all magicians would appreciate.

[RikAllen]

I agree with Caleb and Blindside, Rich Aviles is a very creative guy.

I've already started using his load for card to box, different from the standard, but beautiful in execution.

I'm also working on three of his effects to put into my repertoire; 2Legit, Oops! I did it Again, and Pocket Protectors. Everything in his book is well thought out and easy to understand.

I saw him lecture at the Carolina Closeup Convention earlier this month and his material had everyone talking. If you like clever, well thought out card magic that is performance tested (and Daniel Garcia approved) then you need to pick this up.