I read this review some time back, Jeff. To be sure, fragrance preferences are a very personal thing. I will occasionally look at fragrance reviews on Fragrantica. What smells wonderful to someone is a real stinker to someone else. Case in point, the reviewer above highlights "Cool Water," and I'd give that one a "meh" rating.
If you want to get some chuckles, go and read the diversity of reviews you'll find on Aramis. I use Aramis because it reminds me of Kathy's dad and uncle.
I've tried maybe 3 dozen different soaps and creams, and Tabac provides me with with an almost foolproof excellent lather every time. I'm OK with the scent. I know this is weird, but it actually reminds me of Bar Harbor, Maine because I used it on a trip there when I first began DE shaving. To be honest, I can't pick up the scent after the shave is complete.
I had to work a little harder to get a good lather from MWF, but I'm sure I'd do better with it now. It didn't have much of a scent, so I could see how this soap would appeal to folks that may be more scent sensitive. I follow all my shaves with unrefined shea butter, so 'skin feel' after using any shave soap or cream is a non-issue for me.
I do lean more toward soaps and creams that have been around for a long time. It adds to the overall "traditional" shaving experience for me. I don't follow all the" latest and greatest" artisan soaps. I wouldn't drink donkey milk, so I probably ain't gonna slather it on my face.

As for the artisans, I'll stick with Mike's because his soap performs great, I like his simple packaging, and he's a very nice guy that has taken the time to help me. Same with Stirling. I think Rod is a classy guy that makes some good soaps.
A really cool thing about this hobby is that there is so much variety. It is fun to explore at times, and I do enjoy seeing all the different hardware and software everyone uses.
Enjoy your shaves, Jeff, and keep the limericks coming!

Click to expand...