My initial impression appears to be correct. My water is in no way suitable for lathering any soaps or creams. I'm frustrated to say the least, and will have to only use bottled water from now on. My second shave attempt was futile, even after making sure I loaded the brush properly, by the time I went to lather for a second pass my brush was dead. So I will say that xpec is great, I especially love the scent, but until I shave again using better water I won't really now how good it is. I've been having lathering issues with all my soaps and creams, and I always thought it was my technique, or brush. Well now I have a thater 26mm 2 band and I know that making lather is not rocket science, so the only culprit has to be water. Grrr! I'm so angry, all I want is what everyone else is raving about...