*** MYSTIC, “Cuts for Luck and Scars for Freedom,” <i> Goodvibe/JCOR : </i>

With Lauryn Hill on the sidelines working on a new album, there’s a severe shortage of female rappers equipped to discuss emotional and political issues with keen insight and musical punch. But Mystic fills that void. On her stunning debut album (due in stores Tuesday), the Los Angeles rapper-singer delivers impassioned tales about such topics as losing her father to drugs and the self-loathing that drug dealers experience as a result of their occupation.

Throughout the album there’s a sense that Mystic, a former Digital Underground affiliate, is using her music to search for the meaning and consequences of human struggle, especially that experienced by society’s disenfranchised.

Although sometimes becoming confused while looking for answers, Mystic maintains an optimistic outlook, elevating her music to a helpful exploration of pain, disappointment and hope for a better future.

With the exceptions of her uplifting single “The Life” and her dreamy ode to the West Coast, “W,” a somber, sometimes sleepy mood blankets the 18-cut collection, enhancing Mystic’s probing lyrics. As she pushes through the worst of times, it’s evident that Mystic also lives for and celebrates the best of times.

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Albums are rated on a scale of one star (poor), two (fair), three (good) and four (excellent). The albums are already released unless otherwise noted.