Haydn’s sonatas have emerged from the shadows to find life under the fingers of some magnificent modern pianists. Paul Lewis, perhaps inspired by his mentor Alfred Brendel, engages with a quartet of works, creations that abound not only with immense creativity and imagination but also with a truly life-affirming wit and humour. And Lewis doesn’t sell that side of Haydn short—his finger work sparkles, the lines are unfurled with supreme logic but he also brings a smile to the lips. Here’s an album that makes you hope for many more to follow: it’s a revelation and a real joy.