Mystifyed Live Reviews: Mike Hammer Comedy Magic

Don't try this at home!

The crew of Mystifyed Live gets Hammer'd with Las Vegas Comedy Magician, Mike Hammer! During his recent appearance on the Podcast, the entire crew was invited to go check out his hit magic show in Downtown Las Vegas. He recently debuted a brand new trick and wanted all of us to see it for the first time. We hope that this review of the evening may entice you to check out the show the next time that you are in town.

From the moment he stepped on stage, Mike Hammer had command of the room thanks to an unparalleled energy that radiated throughout the crowd. He quickly began joking with various audience members who had no problem joking right along with him. By using humor to connect so well with the crowd, he was able to create a very relaxed atmosphere. All of the jokes he shared with the audience were well received and enjoyed by all. There were even moments where people returned the favor and tried to play jokes on him!

Got water? 

His unique takes on certain classics of magic were a delight to see. He showed mime-like silence while comically producing water from a newspaper, and displayed chilling accuracy when swallowing and reproducing razor blades. Everything was done with a flare that only Mike Hammer could provide. He even played his own version of a game appropriately titled, 'Get Hammer'd', thanks to an unsuspecting audience member and their cell phone. This all lead up to the moment when it was time for the brand new trick. After thoroughly duct taping his eyes shut, he assumed the role of a magical fashionista. He was correctly able to predict the colors of an outfit colored in by a volunteer to create a special picture. We won't give away the surprise twist at the end, but lets just say it was well worth the anticipation.

Everyone on the crew would like to thank Mike for inviting us and for giving us a great shout out during the show. Tip of the hat goes to his crew as well for being very kind and professional during our time there. If you are looking for a great night out mixed with charm, wit and magic look no further than Mike Hammer Comedy Magic. The show runs nightly, Tuesday through Saturday, at The Four Queens Hotel and Casino in Downtown Las Vegas. For tickets and more information about the show, check out www.MikeHammerShow.com. If you would like to hear our interview with Mike, please download his episode by clicking on the iTunes button at the bottom of the page.


Be sure to check us out at JustinTheMystifyer.com.

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©2013 Mystifyer Promotions, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

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Mystifyed Live! Episode 21-- LokI Kross

Season 3, Episode 21

Known more as a Perception Engineer than your typical Magician, LokI Kross, has taken his past experiences in psychology and intelligence and used them to create a unique magical style. After working primarily in the mid-west he ventured out to Las Vegas in order to connect with a wider variety of entertainers. While in Vegas, the relationships he made allowed him to tap into the creative resources of the local magic community to develop a top-selling magic DVD. He is currently working on two new instructional magic DVD's, Sigil and A Taste of Chaos, which he graciously allowed us to be apart of.

Perception Engineer, Loki Kross

LokI joined us, thanks to our former guest Christoper Rose, to promote his upcoming material and to speak about his magic philosophies. In addition to filming several segments of his DVD, we had the privileged of interviewing LokI to look at what drives him to create such powerful magic. It is his goal to give back to the magic community that has helped him achieve his success. He wants to give future magicians simple and high impact magic that allows them to further their performing careers. He hopes that this will inspire a new generation of creators to develop their own unique artistic vision.

The first of his upcoming DVD releases which he performed is called Sigil. Using psychological principles and ancient symbols, the magician is able to correctly guess which symbol the spectator has randomly selected off of a business card. Lastly, we were treated to a performance that is something that has been over 5 years in the making. A Taste of Chaos is his own twist on the classic torn and restored card effect.

We want to thank LokI for spending some time in-studio with us this week. It was a very special privilege to be included on his upcoming DVD's. Be sure to check out his full page ad inside the March issue of Genii Magazine. If you are interested in seeing more magic, check him out on YouTube or follow him on Twitter @LokiKross. To hear the entire interview, be sure to click the iTunes link at the bottom of the page to download it for free!


Be sure to check us out at JustinTheMystifyer.com.

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©2013 Mystifyer Promotions, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

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Networking In The Entertainment Business

When it comes to the entertainment business, networking is an important tool that helps you grow both personally and professionally. You have a chance to meet new and exciting people that help make the industry a great place to be. Forming connections with individuals in your field can be very beneficial to your future success.

There are so many different people in entertainment, you never know who you are going to meet. Performers, promoters, club and business owners are often seen at a variety of different events. It is always important to make yourself available to as many people as you can. If you are introducing yourself to a fellow performer, offer them something more than just, "I love your work, can I take a picture with you?". They get conversations like that from dozens of people everyday. Instead, tell them who you are, what you do and how they can contact you. Open up and connect with them on a personal level; by giving them a glimpse as to who you are as a person, they will eventually want to learn more about you as a performer.

Forming these relationships can give you the chance to share new ideas, help each other with projects and learn about other aspects of the business that you may not have known about. By being courteous to everyone you meet, it allows you to gain a positive reputation among your peers. You begin to build a level of trust with other entertainers which will help you as you progress in the industry. No matter what the level of trust you have or who you know, you must always be mindful of how you carry yourself. Because the community is so tightly knit, anything you say or do can either help or hurt you. As long as you maintain a level of professionalism, your inner circle will only continue to grow.

Former guest Mike Hammer said it best, "People can forget about you just as easily as they found you." By making a good impression and properly networking with others you become more than just another person. You have brought something new to the table and contributed to the community you are now apart of in a positive way.

Be sure to check us out at JustinTheMystifyer.com.

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©2013 Mystifyer Promotions, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

Images provided by: www.sxc.hu

Mystifyed Live! Episode 20-- Mike Hammer

Season 3, Episode 20

Comedy Magician, Mike Hammer

Mike Hammer is more than a headlining Comedy Magician, his wide variety of talents make him one of the most in-demand entertainers in Sin City. He has over 20 years of experience performing all over the country for colleges and companies including Sony, Dell, Lexus and AT&T. He is also a Master of Ceremonies and occasional Ring Announcer for various MMA fights around town. He currently stars in his own show at The 4 Queens Hotel and Casino in Downtown Las Vegas.

After getting started in magic at age 12, he quickly began working a variety of shows in his hometown of Chicago. He soon progressed to corporate gigs and eventually performed at colleges all around the country. His travels led him to Las Vegas where he quickly acclimated himself to the local magic community. His edgy performance style was something slightly different from what audiences in Vegas were seeing. Because he prides himself on creating exciting and original presentations, it is his hope that future entertainers will do the same. By taking the time to adapt a routine to your own personality you become more than just another magician. You create a unique opportunity for the audience to experience part of who you are while witnessing something incredible.

It was a blast having Mike in-studio with us this week. He certainly kept us laughing and we hope you enjoyed it as well. If you are ever in town be sure to check out his show at The 4 Queens Hotel and Casino. It has recently been ranked one of the Top 10 Shows by the Las Vegas Trip Advisor. For more information about Mike Hammer and his show you can follow him on Twitter @OfficialHammer, `Like' him on Facebook and check out www.MikeHammerShow.com. 

Be sure to check us out at JustinTheMystifyer.com.

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©2013 Mystifyer Promotions, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

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Former Guest Update: L*A*W

Musician/Rapper, L*A*W

We are excited to announce that former guest, Rapper and Musician, L*A*W, is currently working on two brand new music projects. His newest mix tape is entitled "The Titanium Cyborg". Mix tapes are usually a collection of songs that sample the style of an upcoming full length album. This will segue into his next full-length release, 'Psychotic Chameleon'. This is the follow up to his Grammy nominated record, "The Planet 12 Syndrome". With these two new releases, he is hoping to gain more support as he looks to capture his third consecutive Indie Award. Both projects are looking to be released later this year. 

When L*A*W joined us for an episode of Mystifyed Live back in season 2, we were able to get a look into the world of a very dedicated and hard working musician. His unique approach to music makes him one of the more diverse artists in the Hip-Hop world. Taking elements from Funk, Jazz and even Techno, he has created a sound that is truly his own. He has lent his musical and lyrical talents to major television networks including VH1, A&E and Bravo. He has performed with superstars such as Amy Winehouse, Rihanna, Rick James and Harry Connick Jr.

We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of his new material. Until then, you can check out his Grammy nominated debut album 'The Planet 12 Syndrome' by downloading it from iTunes. To hear more of his music you can check out many of his videos on YouTube. To keep up to date on all of his current projects be sure to follow him on Twitter @Planet12law.

Be sure to check us out at JustinTheMystifyer.com.

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©2013 Mystifyer Promotions, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

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Mystifyed Live Has Been Nominated For A Shorty Award!

The official Shorty Awards logo

We have great news! Mystifyed Live has once again been nominated for a Shorty Award! For the last 4 years The Shorty Awards have honored the best of the best in Social Media including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram. Fans can vote for their favorite users, content and several specialty awards. Since it began in 2008, it has become one of the biggest award shows for online content.

Last year we were nominated for awards in several categories. What made that so special for us, was the fact that we were nominated with only one week left in the competition. In that time we were able to reach the Top 40 of all vote holders. This year we would love to be able to go from an Award Nominated Podcast to an Award Winning Podcast, but we need your help!

Our official logo

From now until February 10th you can submit your votes for Mystifyed Live via the official Shorty Awards website. All you have to do is fill out the form on the page and that's it! Make sure you select your vote to be submitted in the Podcaster category. So what are you waiting for? Cast your vote, spread the word to your friends and family. Make Mystifyed Live the 2013 winner of the Podcaster Shorty Award! 

To vote for Mystifyed Live, click HERE.

Be sure to check us out at JustinTheMystifyer.com.

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©2013 Mystifyer Promotions, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

 Photos Provided By: ShortyAwards.com and JustintheMystifyer.com

Mystifyed Live! Episode 19-- Michael Goudeau

Season 3, Episode 19

Professional Juggler, Michael Goudeau

Armed with two fast hands, a quick wit and a love for pancakes, Las Vegas Juggler and Comedy Writer, Michael Goudeau, has the ability to entertain almost any crowd. He has taken his skills as a former circus clown and become one of the most talented jugglers in the Vegas area. In addition to his work as the variety act in Master Magician, Lance Burton's show, he has also received multiple Emmy nominations for his contributions to the hit TV series, Penn & Teller: BS!. More recently he wrote a best selling book called Extreme Pancakes, which is based on his former Pancake Project blog.

Michael began his performing career at a Renascence Fair outside of his hometown of San Francisco. He teamed up several friends to form the juggling group, Fly By Night. As he continued to perform all around the country he began to interact with more entertainers who would help shape his future. At one show in Valley Forge, PA he had the pleasure of meeting the great Johnny Thompson, a world famous Magician and Magic Teacher. It was his advice that led to Michael and his partner landing a gig at the Tropicana in Las Vegas as part of the hit production, Folies Bergere. This proved to be the opening that Michael needed to further expand his performance resume and eventually go on to become a highly successful solo performer. With such a detailed history be sure to check out the full interview for more of his amazing adventures in entertainment and to hear more about those delicious pancakes.

An Example of an Extreme Pancake From Michael's Book

Tip of the hat goes to Michael for being on the show with us this week. Between a busy tour schedule and his recent hip surgery we are very grateful for him taking the time out of his schedule to share his stories with us. We wish him the best of luck with his upcoming surgery and for a speedy recovery. Interested in learning more about 'Extreme Pancakes'? You can purchase the book from Barnes and Noble by clicking HERE. If you would like to find out more about Mr. Goudeau feel free to check out his website and follow him on Twitter @DamnedJuggler. 

Be sure to check us out at JustinTheMystifyer.com.

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©2013 Mystifyer Promotions, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

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The Benefits of Online Music Services

With all of the technological advancements of the last several years, programs like iTunes, Spotify and SoundCloud have changed the way people discover new and exciting artists. It has also helped those entertainers reach a much larger audience, and has given their fans an easier way to share their work with others.

Depending on what you are looking for, you may find that each of these programs may be beneficial in different ways. Here is a brief description of what each service provides:

iTunes - Gives users the freedom to purchase and store music, movies, books and Podcasts, like Mystifyed Live, on your computer. You can also take all of that media with you on many portable devices like MP3 Players's, Smartphones and other portable music devices.
Spotify - A free service that allows users to access a streaming collection of over 15 million songs. It can be connected to various social networking sites to share your favorite tracks and allow others to discover new artists.
SoundCloud - A website that gives musicians and entertainers a chance to upload songs as well as radio shows and interviews. Users then have the ability to share, download and comment on a variety of different content.

Each of these applications gives the artist the ability to share current or upcoming projects with their fans almost instantly. It has provided them with an easily accessible promotional tool and connects them with similar entertainers on a whole new level. The steady stream of readily available content keeps listeners happy and allows them to share their interests with friends in a constantly evolving network of artistic growth.

Our Podcast, Mystifyed Live, debuted on iTunes at the start of this third season. Since that time it has helped us connect with fans and many different entertainers. If you would like to hear what we are all about, please take the time and download past episodes for free. You can find us on iTunes by clicking the logo at the bottom of this post. Go forth and share your music!


Be sure to check us out at JustinTheMystifyer.com.

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©2012 Mystifyer Promotions, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

Images provided by: www.sxc.hu

Mystifyed Live! Episode 18-- Aaron Radatz

Season 3, Episode 18

Thanks to a multitude of knowledge and experiences, Magician, Aaron Radatz, has been able to craft a highly successful magic career. Being the only magic apprentice to the great Harry Blackstone Jr., he was able to form relationships in the magic community that helped him along in his journey. He has also been commissioned by the Department of Defense to perform special magic shows for troops overseas. His keen insight into the business and technical aspect of performing has allowed him to grow in ways he never imagined. Now, many years later he finds himself touring the world performing his unique brand of illusion.

Magician, Aaron Radatz

In one of the most informative points of our interview, Aaron discussed the importance of knowing all aspects of show business. As a performer it is very important to be proficient in the art you are presenting, but also taking the time to learn the business side of what you are doing. Whether it is marketing, booking or finances; it will give you a better understanding of how to become more successful. By being an entertainer you are also a small business owner. You may be one of the best performers in the world, but how you run your business is very important as well.

His advice and insight into the world of magic is something that we can all learn from. A big thank you goes out to Aaron for joining us in studio for our first show of 2013. It was a great way to kick off the new year with such a fun and exciting guest. For more information about Aaron check him out on Facebook, visit his official website and be sure to follow him on Twitter @AaronRadatz.

Be sure to check us out at JustinTheMystifyer.com.

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©2012 Mystifyer Promotions, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

 Materials Used With Permission