Sombra by Darkbeat Parfums

It’s been nearly four years since I tried this perfume by my good friend Darkbeat, and the magic of chemistry has worked miracles. It’s as if time has sanded down that bitter, brash opening note. Where it once smelled of fig under the sun with a rough stemone that could put off the impatient, it is now a smooth rock: you can rest your foot on it without getting hurt. The rest is pure glory. Jose M. has combined the best of summer perfumes: a creamy coconut like sunscreen, a touch of Calone that smells of a sea breeze under the shade of a tree, and carries that sunscreen scent with it. Take the best of Ichnusa, Soleil Blanc, and Un Air de Bretagne and combine them in this artisanal elixir that deserves a spot on my favourite podium for the heat. Immense Darkbeat.

Fabulous perfume, the best I’ve smelled of this style. It surpasses Philosykos, Fico di Amalfi, and Figuier Eden, which are certainly not ordinary. At first, it literally smells of crushed fig, with the clear presence of coconut, a bit of orange, and green tea. After 15 minutes, I smell coriander to me, a blend of celery, parsley, and a citrus touch. Very unusual, but that is what I perceive. Then the room is flooded with those super-natural nuances of fig, leaves, figs, coconut, and tea. I absolutely loved this perfume.

Sombra is my favourite from Darkbeat because it suits my tastes. The opening is super brash, stinging, bitter, and difficult. Fortunately, once that typical sharp, green fig leaf scent settles, the aroma is polished and the coconut begins to emerge, taking the lead for the rest of the wear. It has a good dose of Calone that gives a sea breeze scent, a nuance not noticeable at first, but more in the trail. When someone walks past, that mix of coconut and sea air hits you, which I am absolutely flipping out over. It conveys happiness, a desire for summer, joy; it is solar, beachy, and very easy to wear. Bravo Darky 🙂

Another new release from Darkbeat Parfums thanks to José Manuel. I find the opening powerful, sweet, and delicious. The perception of a perfume varies from person to person; I cannot distinguish the notes. From the start to the finish, I find it totally linear: a delicious melon scent, one of my favourite fruits. Like when you open it on a hot day and see it is well-ripe, sweet, and ready to eat. It sweetens gradually until it disappears. It lasts about 5 hours on my skin.

I notice too much coconut at the opening and can’t focus on any other aroma. It is something personal; I identify the smell of coconut with suntan lotions. After some time, I perceive the cedar. Once hours have passed, it does remind me of a beach day, with sun and sea salt.