Spanish songstress and poet Buika returns to the Arsht Center, as part of its 2012 – 2013 Live at Knight Series, for one night only on Sunday, Dec. 1 at 8 p.m.

Buika. Photo by Javi Rojo.

Constantly evolving and challenging expectations, Buika’s powerful trans-genre work defines hybridity. She weaves together elements of classical Spanish styles, such as rumbas and boleros with jazz and even modern dance rhythms, to create a sound that is uniquely Buikan, yet familiar.

Her latest album, “La Noche Mas Larga (“The Longest Night”), is deeply rooted in the tradition of flamenco, but it also defies that tradition. Through vocalization and arrangement, Buika delicately bends our ear to her whims. This is what I expect from an artist whose body of work simultaneously preserves and transforms classical Spanish music in the age of pop.

However, what draws me to Buika is her voice and stage presence. I understand Spanish un poco, but I don’t need to when Buika sings. Her voice is her story. Her body is her canvas. Even when she performs in a large concert hall, the performance is always intimate and personal, especially when she pulls out her camera to take snapshots of her band.

Buika loves what she does and it’s always transmitted through her music

Buika performs Dec. 1 at 8 p.m. Cost: $45 and $65 @ the Arsht Center. Tickets may be purchased through the Arsht Center box office by calling (305) 949-6722, or online at www.arshtcenter.org.