In the realm of contemporary jazz, few artists manage to balance artistic sophistication with emotional accessibility as seamlessly as keyboardist Benjie Porecki. His eighth solo album, “Faster Than You Know,” arrives March 2, 2026, as both a natural progression from his previous work and a bold statement of creative maturity.
Positioning itself firmly in the contemporary jazz realm with strong influences from funk, soul, gospel, and R&B, the album features Porecki on multiple keyboards, supported by bassist Cory Baker and drummer Mark Prince. This new trio recording finds Porecki at his most expressive, offering forty-five minutes of uplifting, groove-oriented music that speaks to the soul while challenging the ears.
Porecki’s versatility as a keyboardist shines throughout the 9-track collection as the music ranges from funky, up-tempo numbers to gospel grooves and soulful ballads. His ability to seamlessly transition between acoustic piano, Hammond B-3 organ, electric piano, and clavinet demonstrates the “chameleon-like ability” that has made him a sought-after sideman for artists ranging from Carlos Santana and Buddy Guy to Chaka Khan and Patti LaBelle.
The album opener, “Chrysalis,” demonstrates this approach immediately. The Latin-tinged composition features Porecki’s expressive piano work, with a solo that functions as an extension of the melody while taking the piece to unexpected harmonic territories.
Particularly noteworthy is the blending of piano and organ on “Make It Bring You Up,” where Porecki layers the two instruments with a natural ease that suggests years of experience. The multi-layered arrangement of “Fresh Start” showcases his ability to build infectious, head-bobbing grooves that feel both spontaneous and carefully constructed.
The album’s sole cover, Bonnie Bramlett and Leon Russell’s classic “Superstar,” receives a tender, emotionally raw treatment. Porecki’s piano work here is stripped down and intimate, filled with the kind of vulnerability that can only come from an artist who has lived with a song long enough to make it his own.
Faster Than You Know demonstrates that after three decades as a professional musician, Porecki is hitting his creative stride. It’s music that makes you feel good without being superficial, that grooves without being simplistic, and showcases virtuosity without showing off.