Barrister and Mann

I received a package from Top of the Chain today containing Soft Heart Sandalwood and Brew Ha ha and O, Delight.  The sandalwood is a straight up sandalwood and its very nice.  Will doesn't do too many single accord soaps and this one's a winner.  Brew Ha Ha is complex and layered but I think I like it same with O, Delight.  These are just my initial impressions on first sniff off the tub.  

I'm surprised that so many shavers believe that Soft Heart and Excelsior bases perform similarly. I'm of the opinion that Soft Heart is better than almost every base on the market, with the exception of K2 and Mammoth Tusk. The first time I had tried Soft Heart was with the Hallows release and I was blown away. Excelsior simply doesn't compare. While soft heart leaves my face soft, supple, and hydrated, excelsior leaves my face pretty dry and use PLENTY of water.

I'm surprised that so many shavers believe that Soft Heart and Excelsior bases perform similarly. I'm of the opinion that Soft Heart is better than almost every base on the market, with the exception of K2 and Mammoth Tusk. The first time I had tried Soft Heart was with the Hallows release and I was blown away. Excelsior simply doesn't compare. While soft heart leaves my face soft, supple, and hydrated, excelsior leaves my face pretty dry and use PLENTY of water.

Most people do prefer pp8. I actually prefer excelsior, slightly. It does take a lot longer to lather properly and uses a lot of water. I don’t mind however, as I bowl lather enjoy the process. I have not noticed a material difference in post shave but I will pay closer attention next time to see if I notice a difference. 

One thing I will say is that the scents available in excelsior are, to me, a lot better than what has been available in pp8. 

The main-line BM scents are, to me, second to none, and only available at this time in Excelsior.

I, too, prefer Soft Heart (pp8), but I don't dislike Excelsior. The only base I've used that has the edge over Soft Heart is K2.

Sounds like I need to try k2. Is that a Club exclusive?

Sounds like I need to try k2. Is that a Club exclusive?

I'm a club member, but I don't keep up with all that. I think I recall that K2 is a member exclusive until the beginning of the year.

Sounds like I need to try k2. Is that a Club exclusive?

I'm a club member, but I don't keep up with all that.  I think I recall that K2 is a member exclusive until the beginning of the year.

Thanks. I’ll check it out next year.

How many people are sold and love the new aftershave balms in the tubs?

I have the Nordost (pump dispenser) and Hallows (jar) balms. They are excellent products, in my opinion, and the scent of especially the Hallows balm also lingers for quite a while. A definite recommendation from me.

Sounds like I need to try k2. Is that a Club exclusive?

So far, yes. As mentioned above, there’s been talk of a general public release in the new year, but I’m not sure of what or when.

Mario, does the Brew ha ha remind you of any other scents or is there something that is most forward in the scent?

Mario, does the Brew ha ha remind you of any other scents or is there something that is most forward in the scent?

I get coffee and cherry. Quite a nice scent.