The Velvet Underground's immense influence is universally acknowledged. Their raw, uncompromising musical vision was reflected in the visionary interplay between Lou Reed and Sterling Morrison's wrenching yet nuanced guitar work, John Cale's squalling viola runs and drummer Moe Tucker's driving, primal beats. Reed's transgressive portrayals of drugs, sex and violence had no precedent in popular music, balancing unflinching grit with unmistakable compassion and empathy. The band's Collected series compilation gathers 23 trailblazing songs including the quintessential "I'm Waiting for the Man," "Heroin," "Venus in Furs," "All Tomorrow's Parties," "White Light / White Heat" and "Pale Blue Eyes."