DURING his rather ugly separation from his wife, more than 20 million listeners heard Tony Blackburn spin R&J Stone’s break-up ballad Thrown It All Away time after time.

Back in 1976 there weren’t many pop tunes with such an adult theme. In the intervening years, many albums have been influenced by a break-up. But making a concept album of human frailty will be considered by many to be in the worst possible taste.

However, the songs here are just too darned good and exquisitely performed. Lest we forget the gorgeous Toni Braxton has the vocal dexterity of an angel, and as for Mr Kenneth Babyface Edmonds, well, he is one of the most observant and sensitive writers of our time.

Although dark, this just begs to be played loud without break or interruption. Even the rather vicious lyrics on I Wish, including a desire for Ms Braxton’s ex to catch a nasty disease, can be forgiven.

This is a truly wonderful album that can still be enjoyed by those in a stable loving relationship.