From the opening flourish of a dynamic bassline and crunchy guitar lead, Risco’s third single, ‘Triple Agent’, is a real treat. That central motif recurs throughout the track, breaking the song into clear sections and giving it a compelling sense of movement without ever feeling rushed. It’s a confident introduction that immediately signals a band who know exactly what they want to say and how they want to say it. Risco clearly care deeply about the music they put into the world.
What stands out most about the band is their focus on injustices and humanity, drawing on both personal experiences and issues they feel strongly about. ‘Triple Agent’ is inspired by encounters with people who take advantage when you are vulnerable. The song captures the tension of standing up for something and the fact that such courage can make you a target. Yet it also conveys how the impact of such encounters lingers long after those people are gone, shaping who you become.
What is particularly striking is how the track transforms that sense of exposure into empowerment. ‘Triple Agent’ encourages listeners to defend what they believe in and celebrate difference rather than shrink from it. In the current climate in the UK – and, indeed, the wider world – it’s a message that feels both timely and necessary.
Musically, the song leans into a spy-movie atmosphere, blending cinematic tension with assured swagger. There are hints of early Arctic Monkeys in the guitar work, while the drums sit firmly “in the pocket”, borrowing a groove more often found in R&B or soul than in straightforward indie rock. The overall effect is stylish and charismatic – imagine Barbarella meets The Stooges.
The drums are central to this effect. They occupy a fascinating space – part slow build, part immediate crash – and instead of easing the listener in, they pull you straight into the song, locking you in before you’ve even had a chance to question it. Vocally, everything feels unforced and utterly authentic. The delivery is clear, yet there is a softness around the edges, with a slight rasp creeping in at times. Minimal, well-placed harmonies add depth without ever feeling excessive.
My personal highlight comes around 2:15, when the guitar shifts into a near space-age tone, fully embracing the fantastical spy-themed atmosphere. It is quickly countered by the lush bassline before the track concludes. The ending comes sooner than you might like – but in the best possible way. ‘Triple Agent’ is the sort of song that makes you want to hit replay the moment it finishes. It’s an absolute delight.
You can listen to the track now on all major streaming platforms.
