Massive Attack and Cocteau Twins are important because some of your favorite bands and songs wouldn’t exist without them. The songwriting, vocal affect, production quality and aesthetic level setting throughout their catalogs is astounding. Teardrop, specifically, is a masterclass on being dynamic with minimal elements. I feel like I’m in an epic hospital drama montage while I’m listening to it. What is happening? Who’s dying? Who’s giving birth? Who loves me? Find your own montage!

Listen to the fifty-two 52 playlist.