After reading many posts on the topic, I'm experimenting with Proraso and Tabac (en route). However, for years I was happy with the glycerin soaps from Em's Place (web store). I would literally put a cake or two into my bowl and nuke it until it liquified. It would then cool into the bowl, never to rattle or move. I found it made a nice, rich lather. She has many other men's shaving and toiletry items, as well.

Anyone familiar with Em(ily)?