The Story
Why it exists.
The beginning
Michael Loring Probst designed Grit & Poise in 2014. The name refers to its two sides: grit for the raw, resinous materials, amber, olibanum, labdanum, and poise for the elements that balance them. Together, these components create a fragrance that explores the space between intensity and restraint, smoke and sweetness. The olibanum provides a rich, smoky character while the labdanum adds a deep, resinous quality. The amber warmth prevents the composition from becoming harsh, instead creating a more nuanced experience. These materials interact in ways that create both depth and complexity. Grit & Poise is part of West Third Brand's collection, offering a distinctive approach to incense-forward fragrance design.
What makes this composition unusual is the restraint. The olibanum and labdanum provide a resinous, almost waxy depth, but the lemon in the opening keeps things from closing in. The citrus brightness cuts through the denser elements, preventing the fragrance from becoming too heavy. The lily of the valley appears later, not as a floral statement, but as a notable element that adds complexity to the heart of the composition. The drydown features patchouli and vanilla together, creating a warm foundation for the fragrance that lingers on the skin.
The evolution
Grit & Poise opens with a jolt of brightness, the lemon cutting through the smoke like a match struck in a room already thick with incense. The olibanum and labdanum arrive simultaneously, giving the smoke a waxy, almost tactile quality. The lemon provides immediate freshness that gradually recedes as the heart develops. Then the heart arrives. The lemon fades, and the amber takes over, warm, golden, with the labdanum providing a slightly medicinal edge that keeps it from becoming sweet. The lily of the valley appears here, present as a floral component within the composition. By the third hour, the drydown has settled into something quieter and more intimate. The patchouli and vanilla work together to create a warm, smoky base that stays close to the skin. The fragrance evolves throughout wear, with different elements becoming prominent at different stages.
Cultural impact
Grit & Poise is one of West Third Brand's most consistent releases. Its appeal is broad: the smoky, warm character attracts both incense enthusiasts and those who typically shy away from heavy fragrances. The fragrance combines depth with wearability, creating a scent that works in various settings. For those who've worn it, the fragrance occupies a specific niche where boldness meets restraint. The combination of resinous materials with brighter elements creates a distinctive character that appeals to different preferences. The warm, smoky foundation provides longevity while the citrus and floral aspects add complexity.
