Mode Zero

Transparent, with a clear amberwoods sweetness. Perfectly unisex, very neutral, climate-versatile and totally inoffensive, Mode Zero developed very similarly on skin for myself as well as my friend of the opposite gender. While a very lovely scent, the simplicity of the structure makes the steep asking price rather difficult to stomach, especially since the full presentation is minimalistic and muted. This would be perfect at the prices charged for Yohji's designer range. To my nose, this has the unmistakeable scent of Iso E Super, while the dominant frizzy amberwoods and light see-through jasmine hint at the likes of ambrox and hedione (or their similar derivatives). While perfumery is nowhere as simple as just throwing notes together, I cannot help but wonder whether a similar scent could be recreated by layering Molecule 01, Molecule 02 and Kiehl's Original Musk in one's desired concentrations. My immediate impression in the opening was that this could be a distant cousin of MFK's creations, with the application of amberwoods and musks in particular reminiscing his style. It specifically reminds me of Baccarat Rouge 540 EDP, nowhere near a clone but certainly sharing lots of texture. Overall, I would say if you can stomach MFK prices and are looking for something 40% like BR540's dry amberwoods but lighter, less candylike and more transparent, definitely have a look at Mode Zero. If budget is a concern, Molecule 01 alone would do a great job carrying a similar impression.