As the market matures, so do consumer tolerances. Brands have started responding by pushing test numbers up via the magic of infusion, and Ascend has spun out an entire label called High Wired that focuses on this trend. I recently visited Ascend Horizon Drive to pick up an eighth of High Wired Banana Daddy-infused “Super Shake” and a GMO-infused preroll to review.

Banana Daddy is a hybrid cross of Granddaddy Purp and Banana Hammock R1, originally created by Ethos Genetics. This infused shake tested at 1.101% THC, 56.079% THCa, and 58.981% total cannabinoids. GMO is an indica-leaning hybrid cross of Chemdawg and Girl Scout Cookies. This preroll tested at 1.515% THC, 52.007% THCa, and 55.264% total cannabinoids.

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The Banana Daddy infused shake presented an earthy-olive color with a classically fine grind. It was quite sticky to the touch; in fact, much of the shake adhered to the interior of the jar, requiring a tool to scrape it free. The GMO preroll arrived as a standard-white cone filled with dark-forest green, finely-ground flower. To the trained eye, small, darkened spots on one side revealed the distillate infusion. This infusion resulted in a dense, slightly moist joint that burned surprisingly evenly.

Aroma-wise, the Banana Daddy offered a strong, one-dimensional stony earth tone. While that mineral flavor remained in the smoke, it was joined by notes of cheddar and dried basil. Light on the palate, the flavor had little staying power. Straight from the tube, the GMO joint was similarly singular, featuring a dried mushroom note. Once lit, the mushroom funk continued to dominate, though undertones of black pepper and freshly dug earth built up as the joint burned down.

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Both experiences opened with a sharp but fleeting peak characterized by strong body pressure and a dazing mental shift. The Banana Daddy kept me in a spaced-out, unfocused headspace for the next half hour. Physically, the body load softened, shifting toward a lighter tingling sensation before dissipating. The GMO provided the opposite trajectory. Once the heavy upfront daze peaked, it was replaced by a stress-free clarity that brought me into the moment. The body load, however, kept building into a heavy indica pressure that eventually led me to bed.

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FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from healthcare practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product.

Effects & Medical Attributes are based on anecdotal evidence. Individual experiences can be varied