Yves Saint Laurent's M7, a fragrance that boldly redefined masculinity in the early 2000s, has left an indelible mark on the world of perfumery. Its legacy continues to resonate, particularly with the release of various iterations and flankers, including the subject of this review: the M7 Oud Absolu Eau de Toilette. This fragrance, part of YSL's prestigious "La Collection" line, presents a fascinating exploration of the original M7's DNA, enriched with the opulent and enigmatic notes of oud. This in-depth review will dissect its composition, performance, and overall appeal, comparing and contrasting it with other members of the M7 family, including the original M7, M7 Odyssey, and other releases within the La Collection M7 range.
A Deep Dive into the Fragrance's Composition:
The original M7, created by the legendary Jacques Cavallier Belletrud and Alberto Morillas (although some sources only credit Cavallier Belletrud), was a groundbreaking Oriental Woody fragrance. It dared to challenge conventional notions of masculine scent with its bold, complex blend of spices, resins, and woods. The Oud Absolu, a later addition to the lineage, builds upon this foundation, injecting the powerful and often controversial note of oud into the heart of the composition.
While the exact notes aren't always explicitly listed by YSL, a careful analysis reveals a captivating tapestry of aromas. The opening is typically less aggressive than the original M7, presenting a smoother, more refined introduction. Instead of the immediate punch of spices, we encounter a subtly sweet and slightly medicinal facet, likely stemming from the oud's interaction with other components. This initial phase is often described as slightly balsamic and smoky, hinting at the deeper, more complex layers to come.
The heart of M7 Oud Absolu unfolds gradually, revealing a rich blend of spices. Cinnamon, traditionally a prominent note in the original M7, remains present but is more nuanced and integrated within the overall composition. Other spices, perhaps hints of clove and cardamom, contribute to the warmth and complexity, preventing the scent from becoming overly linear. This spicy heart is beautifully balanced by the creamy, almost honeyed sweetness of the oud, which prevents it from becoming overly harsh or medicinal.
The base notes of M7 Oud Absolu are where the fragrance truly shines. The oud's characteristic woody, leathery, and slightly animalic facets are beautifully complemented by the deep, resinous notes of amber and perhaps a touch of sandalwood. This creates a powerful, long-lasting base that anchors the fragrance and provides a luxurious, almost opulent finish. The dry-down is exceptionally smooth, with the oud and amber notes intertwining to create a rich, intoxicating aroma that lingers on the skin for hours.
Performance and Longevity:
One of the defining characteristics of the M7 line, and particularly the Oud Absolu, is its exceptional performance. This is an Eau de Toilette, yet it projects strongly for several hours, leaving a noticeable sillage trail that announces its presence without being overpowering. The longevity is equally impressive; a single application can easily last for eight to ten hours, sometimes even longer depending on skin chemistry and environmental factors. This impressive performance is a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skillful blending of the perfumers.
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