Magnetic Blend 8

The Verdict

Initio Magnetic Blend 8 is one of the most divisive fragrances in the niche market. Released in 2015 as part of Initio's Magnetic Blend collection, this oriental woody composition channels the ritualistic power of burning resins and sacred smoke. For some, it is a revelatory incense experience that removes the cold sharpness typically associated with the genre. For others, it is a synthetic mess that recalls industrial lubricants. There is remarkably little middle ground.

The community is split almost evenly between passionate advocates and vocal detractors, with the fragrance earning strong reactions in both directions. Its subsequent discontinuation has only intensified the debate, with admirers mourning its loss while critics feel validated.

What It Smells Like

Magnetic Blend 8 opens with a wave of incense and olibanum (frankincense) that immediately announces its sacred, ceremonial character. The effect is like walking into a beautiful old church where unburnt incense hangs in the air. Oakmoss adds an earthy, green depth to the smoky opening, grounding the resins with a classic chypre-like element.

As the fragrance develops, it reveals a warm, round character that distinguishes it from sharper incense compositions. One reviewer noted that a rubbery quality removes the cold sharpness usually accompanying incense fragrances and replaces it with something warmer and more mysterious. However, this same quality is what leads detractors to describe the scent as reminiscent of spent motor oil and WD-40. The dry-down is fairly linear, maintaining its smoky-resinous character with above-average staying power.

When to Wear It

Magnetic Blend 8 is strictly a cool-weather, evening fragrance. Its heavy, smoky character pairs naturally with crisp autumn and cold winter nights. Reviewers who enjoy the scent describe it as perfect for melancholic moods, pairing well with a cozy leather chair and a good book. It works well as a solo evening scent for personal enjoyment rather than for social settings where its divisive nature might prove problematic.

This is not a workplace or casual daytime fragrance. Its intensity and polarizing character demand considered, intentional use.

Longevity & Projection

Longevity is above-average for an incense-focused composition. Two sprays are generally sufficient for a full day, though the fragrance tends to stay close to the skin rather than projecting aggressively. Most reviewers report 4-6 hours of wear, with some experiencing longer performance depending on skin chemistry. The linear nature of the composition means you get a consistent smoky-resinous experience throughout the wear time without dramatic shifts.

The Community Says

The fragrance community on Fragrantica, Parfumo, and Maxaroma is sharply divided. Positive reviewers describe Magnetic Blend 8 as taking incense fragrances to a new level, praising its warm, alluring, and aromatic character. They find it rich, earthy, and smokey, recommending it for anyone who appreciates dark and contemplative scents. Negative reviewers are equally emphatic, with one reporting the scent made them nauseous and gave them a headache, while another described pouring spent motor oil all over their body. The fragrance consistently earns strong reactions rather than indifference.

Who Should Buy This

Magnetic Blend 8 is for dedicated incense and frankincense enthusiasts who have sampled the fragrance and confirmed it works with their chemistry. Blind buying is strongly inadvisable given the extreme polarization. Those who enjoy dark, contemplative, smoky fragrances and appreciate the ceremonial character of burning resins will find this deeply satisfying. Collectors of discontinued Initio releases may also seek it out for completeness.

The Bottom Line

Initio Magnetic Blend 8 is a fragrance that demands to be experienced before judgment. Its sacred smoke and frankincense character creates an experience that is genuinely unique in the niche market, inspiring both passionate devotion and equally passionate rejection. Sample first, then decide which side of the divide you stand on.