Jim's Gems 1974: Bowie, Van, and Planxty among the albums marking 50-year anniversaries

In the latest of our series on albums marking significant anniversaries, Jim Comet pics the best records from 1974, a year of transition for the music industry 

Jim Comet's 1974 picks include Bowie's Diamond Dogs and Van Morrison's Veedon Fleece

While the early 1970s was one of the greatest eras in music, by 1974 a subtle dip in quality began to emerge. Artists who had survived the ’60s artistically began to struggle, Ziggy was gone, glam had lost its glitter and others seemed to be merely going through the motions. 

While 1974 was an incredible year for live albums, I’m sticking to the studio for these highlights. Agree or disagree with my selection? Feel free to add your own comments on the form below.