Marc Jacobs - Bang Bang

BANG FOR THE BUCK. Apart from the somewhat silly and uninspired name, Bang Bang by Marc Jacobs is actually a very competent flanker to last years successful original.

Just like Bang, the dry, peppery woody base remains but has now been updated with a modern minty top and some opening creamy citrus notes. This adds some welcome herbal plumpness and a zesty sting to the rough, smoky vetiver heart. Deep notes of sage and patchouli mellow the overall impression for a significantly smoother ride compared to the original.

Part of the charm of the original was it´s coarse and minimalist approach, which - at the same -time easily turns into monotony and ultimately boredom. Not so with this update. Overall a more complete and wearable fun fragrance. Uplifting, modern and masculine.

Additional official notes include lemon, fennel, cardamom, sandalwood and cashmere musks.

Year of Launch: 2011
Gender Classification: Masculine
Reminiscent of: Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle Geranium pour Monsieur, Hermès Poivre Samarcande, Armani Sport Code
Longevity & Sillage: Moderate projection, very good staying power
Overall Rating: 7/1o

GUIDE - Fragrances for Fall/www.manolo.se

Sweden´s premiere Men´s Style Blog, www.manolo.se, recently published my guide on fragrances especially suited for autumn. Article in Swedish here: http://www.manolo.se/artiklar/artikel/20110808/varma-hostdofter

Speed Review: Creed - Aventus

Year of launch: 2010
Gender classification: Masculine
Perfumer: Olivier & Erwin Creed
Availability: In production
Dominant Notes: Blackcurrant, bergamot, apple, pineapple, patchouli, oak moss, musk, ambergris and vanilla.
Reminiscent of: Ralph Lauren Romance Silver, Armani Attitude, Paco Rabanne Black XS for Him
Longevity & Sillage: Moderate to good projection, excellent staying power
Packaging & Design: Standard Creed flacon with added black leather wrap and silver plaquet
5 adjectives: Fruity, smoky, crisp, mossy, elegant
Overall Rating: 8/10