Sizzling Soloist (Foil) (SNC)

Sizzling Soloist
Casting Cost: {3}{R}
Card Type: Creature - Human Citizen
Power/Toughness: 3/2
Card Text:

• Alliance - Whenever another creature enters the battlefield under your control, target creature an opponent controls can't block this turn. If this is the second time this ability has resolved this turn, that creature attacks during its controller's next combat phase if able.
  Artist: Véronique Meignaud

Analysis:

Sizzling Soloist combines elements of red's aggressive nature with a form of control.

Strengths:

1. Disabling Defenders: At its base level, this card can neutralize potential blockers, which can be pivotal in aggressive strategies.
2. Forcing Aggression: If you can activate the Alliance ability twice in one turn, you can force an opponent's creature to attack, potentially leaving them vulnerable on the backswing or forcing a creature to suicidally attack into a situation where it will be destroyed.
3. Versatility with Multiple Triggers: The Alliance mechanic encourages you to play more creatures, allowing you to further capitalize on the benefits Sizzling Soloist offers.

Potential Downsides:

1. Reliance on Multiple Creatures: To get the most out of Sizzling Soloist, you'll need to be able to consistently play multiple creatures in a turn. This could be hard in certain situations or if the deck isn't built to support it.
2. Conditional Second Ability: The requirement of activating the ability twice to get the second effect might not always be feasible.

Deck Placement:
Sizzling Soloist would be at home in a red-based aggro deck, especially one that can consistently flood the board with creatures. Its ability to render potential blockers useless and to force unwanted attacks can be strategically used to set up lethal turns.

Flavour and Art:
Without viewing the art directly, based on the card's name and Véronique Meignaud's style, one could imagine a flamboyant performer dazzling the audience. The card's mechanics mirror this idea, as the soloist's performance first captures the attention of the audience (preventing blocking) and then compels a member of the audience (an opponent's creature) to join the show (forcing it to attack).

Overall Impression:
Sizzling Soloist offers a strategic layer to aggressive red strategies. By controlling how and when opponents can block or attack, this card can dictate the tempo of the game, which can be invaluable in ensuring victory.