Stephen Hough is one of the finest Franck interpreters of our time, and this 1997 Hyperion recording showcases his deep understanding of the French Romantic piano tradition. Franck's keyboard works are often overshadowed by his organ music, but they contain some of the most searching, harmonically adventurous writing of the nineteenth century. Hough brings both technical brilliance and real musical depth to these works, whether navigating the passionate late sonatas or the more intimate character pieces. His touch is sensitive, allowing the rich harmonic language to bloom naturally. If you know Franck only through his famous organ chorales, this disc will surprise you with the profundity of his piano writing. A stellar recording that belongs in any serious piano collection.