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Kemi
by Kemi Blending Magic
Kemi is a bold, dense oriental gourmand with strong animalic and woody notes that unfolds in layers on the skin. The opening is strikingly intense—rich with oud, cedar, and a candied caramel sweetness that grounds the composition as it evolves. The animalic elements of castoreum and civet are prominent, lending a darkly sensual, almost skanky character that blends seamlessly with vanilla and sandalwood. Over time, the scent deepens into a creamy, powdery base with lingering woody nuances, creating a thick, immersive experience. The balance is surprisingly harmonious despite its intensity—many find it hypnotic, dreamlike, and emotionally evocative. It performs well over long hours, particularly at night, with strong sillage and moderate-to-strong projection, though some report a less graceful dry-down that may verge into a cardboard-like chintz phase after several hours. Its unique olfactory profile makes it stand out, especially for those who appreciate extreme gourmands, animalic depth, and Middle Eastern-inspired perfumery.
Pros
- +The olfactory experience is deeply immersive and transformative—many describe it as unforgettable, cinematic, and evocative.
- +Strong longevity and sillage, especially in colder seasons and for night wear.
- +The composition balances sweetness, animalics, and wood notes in a way that feels masterfully blended despite its intensity.
Cons
- −The initial impression can be overpowering and off-putting, many describing it as stinky, barnyard-like, or synthetic.
- −The dry-down can become unbalanced, with some reporting a weak or cardboard-like conclusion.
- −It is highly divisive, requiring a strong tolerance for animalic and gourmand notes, and may be unpleasant to those sensitive to these elements or antsy toward synthetic scents.