I've been testing this lately, to good results. Thought I'd put it up in here for you guys to check out, doesn't seem like it belongs anywhere else.

Dark Taxes

3 Deathrite Shaman
4 Mother of Runes
4 Stoneforge Mystic
4 Thalia, Guardian of Thraben
4 Dark Confidant
3 Serra Avenger
3 Phyrexian Revoker
2 Tidehollow Sculler

4 Aether Vial
4 Swords to Plowshares
1 Jitte
1 Batterskull

4 Wasteland
4 Rishadan Port
2 Karakas
3 Marsh Flats
3 Windswept Heath
3 Scrubland
1 Savannah
3 Plains


I started testing it because I like how Confidant just keeps the gas coming. The Creature-base is designed for Vial @ 2, otherwise I would for sure have some Mirran Crusaders in there somewhere. Scullers have been interesting so far - they get boarded out a lot but are great G1 vs Miracles.

I also have 2-3 Teeg and 1-2 Grip in the SB (Hence Savannah). Mana base is smooth and has yet to give me problems, even against opposing wastelands.

I know people will say DRS is sort of redundant w/ Vial, but it allows you some sweet openers of DRS -> 2 drop + waste when you don't have vial, as well as filling out the 1 drop spot with Mom and being a generally awesome piece of cardboard.

Haven't yet gotten around to testing Thoughtseize out of the board but it's an option. 4 slots is a lot, however, and Hatebears usually seal up the control / combo MUs anyway.