urban hoodoo

The outside is so bland, off white mixed with black that its almost invisible, melting into the background as if its always been there. The retro stylish and faded sign says Natural Fragrance Co. A Barbara Lane Creation as if its a rundown boutique. There's usually religious looking crosses and other holy paraphernalia in the window. I wouldn't call it a window display that would be too grand. Nothing really tells you upfront and out loud what this shop is a about. Its kind of like a secret. The floor is uneven, cardboard boxes fill the shop centre blocking the sun, creating a transient, just moved in or are maybe moving out vibe. Near the counter there is always piles of incense - packets of it a foot long and baby pinky thick. This is the local Santeria or folk religion place where peps come from all over London to get supplies. The incense, candles and charcoal here are incredibly cheap, way lower than any market stall. They sell bags of Myrrh crystals and other pungent stuff for burning. Some of the goods are more magical looking, strange shaped candles, sprays and potions for bringing good luck and getting rid of evil with garish two colour packaging. There's also books full of folklore, love spells, money magic and prayers for everything from smiting enemies to banishing evil - in short a stash of tomes you won't find in your local library. The guys behind the counter are friendly, patient and seem amazingly knowledgeable. Somewhere for both the connoisseur or seeker of cheap candles, incense and aromatics.

A User - 01/01/2009 | report this review