If Edgar Allan Poe and a Balinese priest had a baby—and that baby grew up to be a perfumer—it would probably create something like I Am Darkness. Azman Perfumes, known for their ability to bottle existential crises and spiritual awakenings, have outdone themselves with this latest release. Yes, ‘I Am Darkness’ is the name, and no, it doesn’t come with a black velvet cloak, but it really should.
Upon first spritz, you’re greeted with a citrusy slap from bergamot and grapefruit. But don’t get too comfortable—this is not your cheery brunch mimosa moment. It’s the kind of citrus that says, “I’m bright… but brooding.” Like a poet in sunglasses. Indoors. At night.
Then comes the pepper. Oh, the pepper. Fiery enough to suggest you’re about to make some regrettable life choices, but balanced with a mysterious oud that whispers “You’re safe. Probably.” And let’s not forget the incense—this isn’t your yoga studio variety. This is incense that spent a semester in Prague writing sad poetry and contemplating mortality.
Midway through, a bloom of frangipani and jasmine floats in, as if to remind you that yes, even vampires can appreciate a good floral moment. The coffee note, meanwhile, lurks in the background like a melancholic barista who’s secretly in love with you.
And the base? Amyris, oakmoss, and labdanum hold down the fort like a forest shaman on anti-anxiety meds. Frankincense does what frankincense does best—haunts your soul gently—and the entire composition dries down into something that smells like the library in an abandoned monastery. Comforting, yes, but only if you find your comfort in ancient scrolls and softly burning incense braziers.
Created by perfumer Nutt Wesshasartar and directed by Husen Baba, I Am Darkness is not for the faint of heart—or nose. But for lovers of moody, resinous, floral-spiritual-forest-magic, it’s an absolute must-sniff. Just don’t wear it to a children’s birthday party unless you’re prepared to be asked if you’re a vampire.
Final Verdict: I Am Darkness is the olfactory equivalent of brooding on a mountaintop in silk robes, reading Rilke while sipping bitter espresso. And honestly? We’re here for it.
Visit AzmanPerfumes.com to discover more.
By: Lucas Raven
