Diving back into my Decades series, and specifically the year 1974, brings me to Radio City, the sophomore album by American power pop band Big Star.

This album was one of only three released by the pioneering act, who recorded between 1972 and 1978 before breaking up. Their work was hugely influential on the alternative movement, with R.E.M. and The Replacements among their biggest fans.

Three of the band’s four founding members died before reaching 60. Guitarist Chris Bell died in a car accident at 27, while lead singer Alex Chilton and bassist Andy Hummel died of heart disease and cancer, respectively, at 59. A sad postscript for a band who made a big impression in a short amount of time.