Soleil Noir

SOLEIL NOIRE. Wow what a fragrance! This is most certainly the most challenging in the collection. The signature collection. We are talking the new progressive fragrance era. Niche of the niche. We are in the realm where we are wearing something for the sake of artistic expression, rather than wearing to attract. The focal point is marcescence. It is the decay and withering of a plant or other botanical entity. But not death! That is important. And that is exactly what this fragrance smells like. It smells like a decaying tree stump in the middle of the forest. It does smell green, but it does not smell fresh. It is a very creative approach to the style we have seen so many times. It is a decay, and a very slow decay at that. Reflective in the longevity of this fragrance. Yes, it does change throughout the day. It is very oud heavy in the beginning and over the course of time, it shifts away and becomes more ethereal. Softer. More approachable, but still deep in the forest. Perhaps because of the general flora listed, or perhaps something else entirely. Such a complex composition! Not necessarily structure alone, but how it smells. Once you start to appreciate fragrances like this, it's very difficult to go back. It becomes a double edged sword because you start to fall out of love with all the other things that you have loved before. At the same time, everyone around you does not like the fragrances you have now chosen to wear. Maybe I just don't care anymore.

The concept of creation and destruction is paradoxical. The sun, the main source of energy of this planet, also has the power to destroy.. gradually. This perfume embodies the concept well, and in an interpretable manner into our noses, and mind. It is a philosophical concept, but is presented easily,, with the right context. This perfume is enjoyed mostly and purely by it. This is not to say it is unappealing, but it is certainly crazy. To say the least, an oud lover’s cup of tea. Soileil noir is by far one of the most intense scents in this perfume line. You are met with a luscious green opening, a Cypriol like scent, paired with galbanum, and an airy sweet hay note. The beginning of life. Yet this is almost instantly transitioned into the event of death. A poetic death, but abrupt and unexpected,, the oud begins to emerge, a rough smoky, and bold base. Now the sun, will continue the cycle of life,,, you feel warmth, the life begins to wither, and the fruits become too ripe.. beginning to decay. The intoxicating, syrupy but sharp scent of rotting apricots quickly rise to the top. This story of decay continues for a few hours, then settles into a time of reflection, and recreation. Once all is gone, the sun, and the proof of destruction is left. Leaving you with a warm embrace, of life.. a full circle experience,, definitely a lasting impression. It can be one of the most intensely poetic perfumes from the line. Work of art? Masterpiece..

Creamy floral suntan lotion dipped in eucalyptus rubbing oil. Interesting but also weird.