Even when covering songs, Reija Massey brings her own unique touch to the music.

If you attended the Old Monterey farmers market in 2017-18, you may have caught then-14-year-old Reija Massey transforming songs like “Message in a Bottle” by The Police with her powerful, crystal-clear vocals – performances that soon led to gigs at local venues.

During her recent appearance at Jacks Monterey, listeners were treated to a soulful version of “California Dreaming,” as Massey added unique piano fills between verses and punctuated lines with subtle vocal flourishes.

She taught herself piano in preparation for a talent contest at the age of 12. Though that performance never happened, the discipline she developed would serve her well for years to come.

With support from the community, including members of Tribe in the Sky, Massey turned raw talent into performances that mix improvisation, audience connection and musical complexity – making for an intriguing live show.

Massey uses her voice with the same creativity as her piano playing. Normally a mezzo-soprano, Massey’s low vocals add a sultry touch to Norah Jones’ “Turn Me On.” Massey sings “you’re the only one who can” in her normal range, but with the words “turn me on,” her pitch rises dramatically, adding energy and a touch of soul.

Massey draws on a wide range of influences to shape her music. From her work in a heavy metal band to her love of retro aesthetics, she channels these interests into her performances.

In her rendition of “Zombie” by the Cranberries, Massey’s voice powers through the entire song without overwhelming. It’s a textured sound. Massey sings from her torso mid-song, then surrenders to the song at the climax before fading quietly on the piano. She transforms rockabilly classic “Stray Cat Strut” into a mischievous romp, reminiscent of a cabaret performance.

Her originals fit seamlessly alongside her inventive covers, blending the same range of emotion and stylistic variety that defines her live performances.

Massey draws comparisons to Tori Amos, and her latest single, released as part of the duo Say It’s Raining with producer Brandon Burden, illustrates why. Darkness is interwoven into a cutesy, baroque pop tune with edgy lyrics: “I got my boyfriend’s blood on my bra; a red lip and a broken jaw.”

Listeners can expect a dynamic, not-so-cookie-cutter performance, with no two gigs ever exactly alike.

REIJA MASSEY plays 7pm Saturday, Oct. 18. C Restaurant + Bar, 750 Cannery Row, Monterey. Free. (831) 375-4500, thecrestaurant-monterey.com.