About Y.O.P.E.
Y.O.P.E. is the musical experiment of bassist Joop de Graaf. Joop is also known for his work with bands such as Brintex Collective, Imaginarium, the Diana Dzhabbar and Da Boiz, and Dandana. Inspired by a wide variety of influences, Joop decided to start his own project together with drummer Luis Possollo. In 2022, he recorded his first EP titled ‘Lost but Here’, which was released on the Wicked Wax label. They now released their debut album called ‘Peer Pleasure’.
Peer Pleasure
In this album, the band explores an intriguing electronic world of sounds, with a foundation built on a danceable fusion of improvisation, beat-driven and neo- soul music. Keeping this foundation strong, Y.O.P.E. has started to make more fully composed songs instead of only beats and grooves. Y.O.P.E. is telling the ups and downs about friendships with their instruments but also with lyrics and works together with upcoming artists like Sam Nera.
The title ‘Peer Pleasure’ came from playing with words and trying to change the negative connotation of peer pressure. Let’s celebrate friendships, it is a very precious thing to have. It might seem obvious for some of you to have friends. Ask yourself the question, would I be as happy if I didn’t have these friends. The answer is simple.
“This album is dedicated to all my friends. Through this album, I want to express my gratitude to each of you. As an only child, I don’t know what it’s like to have siblings, but my friends feel like brothers and sisters to me. I call this feeling ‘Peer Pleasure.’”
Y.O.P.E. 