Out of curiosity - what was the razor it suddenly changed with?
I was using my feather DX with feather pro blades.
Mostly following up with injectomatic.
(But not needing to any more

)
I have now also tried with my R81 and my Q-Shave (Is that right?) and a 37c and my Pal Adjustable.
All with the same results.
FWIW, I found that different parts of my face prefer prefer different angles with some razors.
But as you ruled angles out already, my guesses would be a different soap (perhaps slicker), more soap, a razor that clamps the blade better, but doesn't have much blade exposure or a razor mod/shims.
I agree with the different angles. Good observation though. Same with the rest of the comments.
All of which have aided little bits in the past.
Interestingly, my Q-shave has been the best DE I found to date.
I felt that it held the blade firmer or something.
Second curiosity question: How curly is your facial hair?
Interesting question. Have never thought of that. Why do you ask?
It is very straight actually. It had never crossed my mind it might be otherwise.
It does, in a number of places lay extremely flat to my face.
(Which is why I thought razors with more exposure were more effective)