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After surprising listeners with with her second CD “Zingaro” two years ago, the New York-born vocalist comes up with a collection of holiday songs entitled “The Greatest Gift—Songs of The Season,” a disc made with a cause in mind: the proceeds from both her New York and Chicago concerts benefit the World Bicycle Relief, an organization which provides sustainable access to healthcare, education and economic opportunities in developing nations, in addition to promoting more widespread use of bicycles as an alternative form of transportation. These concerts are fine opportunities  to discover the vocal work of this singer, who sets herself apart from your average jazz vocalist by taking on various sonic influences without veering too far from jazz. Live, she has a sincere approach and a cheerful manner, as heard both on disc and her rare appearances in town. (Ernest Barteldes)

December 16, Schubas, 3159 N. Southport, (773)525-2508, 8pm. $35.