Agreed on the blades, it's really interesting how different they are. I picked up a sample pack years ago when I made the switch to a safety razor and have used Astra Platinum ever since
https://www.fendrihan.ca/collections...razor-samplers
On soap, I used it for years and became a bit frustrated with the whole lather process. I picked up some Proraso in a tube and haven't looked back, it's just a bit more convenient and works just as well.
https://www.fendrihan.ca/collections...-and-vitamin-e