Mat; Very Male (2005)
by Masakï Matsushïma

Fan of anise notes? This one's far more subtle in its use of anise than are Rive Gauche (star anise) and Lolita Lempicka for Men (traditional anise times ten).

Still, I would think twice about buying this one for a romantic frag or a "party" frag as it's got longevity, yes, but very little sillage. Nice office choice for colder climes.

Mat; very male is a stronger fragrance than mat; male, and I think that’s a good thing mat; male disappeared on me. The anise note that takes over the opening accord is fresher than many anise notes I’ve experienced in different fragrances: The first several times I tested the fragrance, I thought it was quite interesting and well done – I really enjoyed it. But now with repeated testing, the anise opening seems to be getting sweeter and sweeter. The fragrance no longer impresses me, because the sweetness is beginning to wear on me. The middle accord of lotus, bamboo, and woods still carry with it vestiges of the anise note – it’s quite nice, but I would prefer more lotus, bamboo, and woods. The base is my favorite part – mainly patchouli supported by cedar. Mat; very male is a very competent fragrance. I like it but it ends up being a little too sweet for me.

Anise, vetiver and musk. The sweetness comes from the musk I smell and the herbal and licorice note comes from a combination of vetiver and anise. Didn't seem to last long on me but it was wonderful.

One of the best uses of Anise I have come across. Recommended.

Very Male has little in common with the original except for a few floral notes. Very is a more acquired scent, very sweet and gourmand sambuca to begin with but then the florals start to soften that. There is a great sense of wood and patchouli in the base which is where the scent really does its best work. It lasts well but is not too overpwoering after the initial hit. One to gain compliments with.

This is one that I purchased immediately after smelling, and I never regretted my decision. A fresh anise opening soon settles into very comforting warm notes and a serene floral-fruit vibe that is somewhat sweet. The composition stays close to the skin, but it is a complex and addictive smell. By blending warm gourmand notes with fresh sweetness, Very Male is both versatile and unique. I highly recommend this!