Hypnotic Oud

First Impressions & Dry Down

Hypnotic Oud opens with a surprising blast of synthetic lavender and something akin to burnt rubber – the saffron, perhaps, gone wrong. It lacks the refined citrus sparkle promised by bergamot. The heart introduces a medicinal geranium note intertwined with a very dry, almost dusty tobacco. A woody aroma is present, but the oud smells like cedarwood shavings dipped in furniture polish rather than authentic agarwood. The drydown is where it really diverges. The advertised leather comes across as a plasticky accord, mixed with a damp, earthy patchouli, creating an unpleasant musty effect. The final impression is a faint, sweetish aroma mixed with lingering tire shop.

Longevity & Projection

On my skin, Hypnotic Oud lasts roughly 6-7 hours, but becomes a skin scent within the first two. Projection is moderate for the first hour, extending about an arm's length. I wore it to an outdoor barbecue and then to an air-conditioned office. It performed better outdoors in warmer weather, the cooler air amplified the synthetic harshness.

Bottom Line

Wearing Hypnotic Oud is like listening to a cover band play a complex rock opera. The melody is recognizable, but the execution lacks the nuance and the magic. You get the general idea, but the experience is noticeably inferior. The original is smooth and elegant; this is a rough sketch. It hints at the sophistication of the original, but fails to capture its depth. You might save some money, but you will also miss out on a truly special fragrance.