Never let it be said that I don't give credit where it's due because I think Paco Rabanne's XS line is not bad. The original has actually become quite a beloved fragrance for me and reminds me of the 90's. XS Black is a bit too sweet but is weird in good way and I appreciate the effort in making something original. So I have high hopes for this one, interesting notes but I never read too much into those, look forward to getting my nose on this.

What a shame it is but Pure XS is absolute bumwash! It's in the same vein as recent oriental releases to the point it's ridiculous now. I tried the new Armani scent on the same day and although this is different it still exists in the same sphere of modern gerericism masquerading as depth, warmth and sexiness. The opening is kinda subtle and slowing growing but similar to Ferragamo uomo or something? It does have a somewhat bracing freshness, maybe the ginger? A herbal woodiness, aquatic at times even but a base which is that silly generic accord present in loads of uninspiring new releases (One million/Invictus/Wanted/ etc...) and a bit of a resinous vanilla drydown. I don't completely hate it, Pure XS is just a bit of a mess and I was maybe expecting to get something good. One thing I am surprised about is how low lying it is on the skin. I'm sure the noses who create these fragrances have the best of intentions but sometimes the combination of notes and disparate ideas culminate in a boring, stilted composition. Oh before I go ...the flacon is MASSIVE and oddly weighty and impressive either as a paperweight or something you could bash a burglar over the head with.