As many of you know, September marks OffBeat’s annual food issue. This year’s cover focus is restaurateur Adolfo Garcia, the man behind La Boca, a Mano, the High Hat Cafe, Ancora and Gusto. Last year’s food issue, which featured jazz vocalist Meschiya Lake, went on to become one of most popular issues of recent years. OffBeat’s Elsa Hahne even nabbed first prize at the New Orleans Press Club’s recent gala for her fruity photo of the alluring songstress.

Typically on Wednesday evenings, Lake joins pianist Tom McDermott at Chickie Wah Wah, but she’s been particularly busy this summer. In June she dazzled at Lincoln Center’s Midsummer Night Swing; last month she swung through South America; and tonight, she’s performing in Amsterdam.

If you’re missing Meschiya’s sweet serenades, here are a few highlights for your afternoon. And if you haven’t already, swing over to Chickie Wah Wah tonight and pick up a copy of McDermott and Lake’s superb live album. Tonight, saxophonist Aurora Neeland’s enticing solos will dance alongside McDermott’s stride.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NV0teex3c4s[/youtube]

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