The Claude Lakey Apollo 8* is a very flexible mouthpiece that fits into many different styles, from Coleman Hawkins' subtone like sound to a bold funk sound and everything in between. The projection is great, the sound warm and fat, a bit bright in the upper register, but easily adjustable when consistently working on it.
It provides extreme dynamic ranges - from a very soft, clear pianissimo up to a James Carter like outburst - it's all included.
Articulation, control and execution of overtones as well as multiphonics are very accurate and don't need much effort to be produced.
I've been using this mouthpiece for a good 2 years now (formerly owned the 7* version for a year, which is equally as nice, I just wanted to go for even more flexibility in sound), sometimes playing other mouthpieces but never more than a week, I always came back to the Lakey, because it just offers the most versatile and colorful sound.
If you're looking for a good all-rounder mouthpiece with some bright punch, great intonation and projection, then the Apollo definitely is for you (whereas this tip opening might need a little work to be in good control).
P.S : Note that the experience I made with this mouthpiece are entirely personal and might therefore not completely apply to you.
