**1/2 Ebba Forsberg

BEEN THERE

(Maverick)

At the height of the Lilith generation, we've definitely been here -- to the land haunted by melancholic songs of loss, resilience, and redemption. But Swedish singer Ebba Forsberg's soulful delivery offers a welcome twist of perspective. Her clear, supple voice seeks confidence (in a higher power on "Carried," in herself on "I'll Do Fine") and solace rather than retribution or self-pity. Her music -- crafted by Forsberg and producer Mats Asplén -- sways in mellow jazz-soul modes. Incorporating powerful keyboard nuances (some fabulous Hammond organ from Asplén), kinder-gentler drum programming, and fluid arrangements, the dynamic instrumental work provides Forsberg with a comfort zone that includes torch-song balladry ("Didn't Treat Me Right"), folk (a cover of South African songstress Tumie's "Photographs"), and silky trip-pop ("You Surprise Me," "Most of All"). Forsberg's been there, all right, but Been There isn't blasé about the experience.

-- Mark Woodlief