Kenneth Cole Black

A modern cologne that doesn't really evoke the idea of depth or darkness but is lively and very wearable. It begins with a minty, mildly green and citrusy beginning followed by a middle of very light incense or smoke notes. I perceive a distinct violet note in the middle and into the dry down. There is a slightly woody base that is really quite light as well.

This is a well crafted, slightly ozonic feeling cologne that is similar to other modern colognes like Lacoste Style in Play (Red) for example. Enjoyable but not extremely multi-layered. Great for office or casual wear.

Lanvin for Men

A rich and refined 1980s cologne that's very difficult to find nowadays. Citrus opening, aldehydes, floral middle, civet and rich woods in the base. Possibly some patchouli for a slight, pleasant sourness. The overall feeling is of refinement, definitely not an Acqua di Gio type. Traditional 80s feel with depth and a grounding in the past. Reminiscent of fragrances in the tradition of the female Chanel Number 5. This cologne is discontinued, I believe, but well worth finding.

Chi Man by Farouk

This is an interesting fragrance I found by chance on eBay from hair styling product company Farouk. A modern cologne with some interesting twists. Starts out with a blast of soapy-dry notes and a slight cough-syrupy note that dissipates quickly. There is also some rosemary and a hint of lavender. This leads to a dry, soapy overall feel punctuated by a melony note, cumin and woods. It's an interesting mix of fruit, cumin and cedar at it's base. Interesting combination of modern and Mediterranean notes, fairly synthetic but enjoyable.

Miracle Homme L'Aquatonic by Lancome

A green fragrance tempered by light rosewood like undertones. The initial blast is slightly citrus quickly joined by green notes as in an impression of bamboo or grass. Invigorating at first but dries down to a floral middle and rosewood base that is not as fresh. Begins as an invigorating, ferny, dewy grass green and dries down to a more refined and very slightly powdery floral with light woods.

Lomani Pour Homme

This is an interesting find. It comes out of the 80s fougere mold but somewhat lightened and fairly linear with uncomplicated, slightly synthetic notes. It opens with citrus and bergamot notes as well as lavender and possibly rosemary. It has a middle of lavender with rose and perhaps jasmine. It dries down to mild sandalwood and cedar with some oakmoss and vetiver base. I think I detect some patchouli in the later dry down. The overall feel is herby and floral but retaining some depth and masculinity. It's definitely heavier than the current releases; kind of like a mix of a traditional eau de cologne with added sandalwood and oakmoss depth. A little-known scent that could be worn dressed up or casually.