I really dont like brisk menu

[Norbert_X]

From my personal experience MATE is fully-customizable and flexible.

@Ralph_Bromley If "it sucks" for you - then do not use it, switch to glossy closed source MacOS or Windows 10.

Did you tried to run MATE Tweak (with mate-tweak) to change MATE layout?

Here on Panel tab you can select any other panel layout:

• Contemporary
  

  

• Cupertino
  

  

• Familiar
  

  

• Mutiny
  

  

• Netbook
  

  

• Pantheon
  

  

• Redmond
  

  

• Traditional