Album: not.com.mercial

Introduction
"Not.com.mercial" is a studio album released in 2000 by the iconic American vocalist and actress, Cher. As the name recommends, this album differs Cher's typical commercial pop noise, replacing it with a more individual, reflective, and experimental design. This modification in sound represents Cher's artistic growth and desire to provide music that resonates on a much deeper level with her fans. "Not.com.mercial" saw restricted release, with just a few thousand copies at first pushed and sales primarily through her site, as significant record labels did not find it commercially viable.

Background and Inspiration
The motivation for "Not.com.mercial" can be traced back to a turning point in Cher's life in the late 1990s, when she attended a three-week songwriting retreat called the "Ragged Ass" songwriters' workshop. According to Cher, the retreat required her to compose a song every day, pushing her to reflect on her life experiences, relationships, and feelings. The resultant material highlights her vulnerability and showcases her songwriting capabilities, which are often overshadowed by her powerful voice and commanding phase presence.

During the sessions, Cher penned a deeply personal and unusual collection of tunes, which would later on form the basis for this album. The decision to release the tunes as a total album was mostly driven by Cher's desire to share her most genuine self with her fans and her commitment to artistic stability, despite the fact that the task was thought about "not industrial" by the majority of music market requirements.

Production and Musical Style
"Not.com.mercial" was mainly tape-recorded in Cher's Los Angeles home studio in 1994, with additional sessions occurring in London and Nashville in 1998, and 1999. The album is lacking dancefloor anthems that Cher is so widely known for and instead showcases her versatility as a singer and songwriter.

The musical design of the album ranges from the introspective balladry of "Still" and "Sisters of Mercy" to the spirited folk-infused rock of "Born with the Hunger" and "Fit to Fly". The song "Classified 1A" handle the sensitive problem of the Vietnam War, while "Don't Come Around Tonite" features balanced spoken-word verses. "Song for the Lonely" assesses individual isolation and yearning, with a dynamism that builds throughout the song.

The lyrics in "Not.com.mercial" are raw, direct, and deeply psychological, offering a peek into Cher's inner battles and life experiences. They resonate with themes of heartbreak, strength, and the look for inner peace and self-acceptance.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Not.com.mercial" got combined reviews from music critics. While some applauded Cher's songwriting capabilities and the album's intimate nature, others discovered the product too personal and self-indulgent. The album did not chart commercially as it was not released through significant record stores and was only offered for purchase through Cher's site.

Despite its business standing, "Not.com.mercial" holds a special place in Cher's vast discography, as it showcases her artistic development and willingness to explore different designs and subject matters. Furthermore, it provides a rare and unfiltered take a look at the feelings and experiences of among the most enduring and successful artists in the music industry. The album ultimately functions as a testament to Cher's commitment to artistic integrity and her capability to transform herself in a continuously evolving music landscape.