The music of Collected has predominantly been described as nu metal[2] and is noted for "kinetic, frenzied energy".[3] On this compilation, DJ Lethal functions as a sound designer for the band, shaping their sound. According to Lethal, "I try and bring new sounds, not just the regular chirping scratching sounds. [...] It's all different stuff that you haven't heard before. I'm trying to be like another guitar player."[4] Though the band is generally opposed to the use of solos, they allowed drummer John Otto to perform an extended solo in the middle of the song "Nobody Like You".[5]
Wes Borland's guitar playing on this compilation is experimental and nontraditional, and is noted for creative use of six and seven-string guitars.[6] The songs from Three Dollar Bill, Yall$ feature him playing without a guitar pick, performing with two hands, one playing melodic notes, and the other playing chord progressions.[4] His guitar playing on this album also makes use of octave shapes, and choppy, eighth-note rhythms, sometimes accompanied by muting his strings with his left hand, creating a percussive sound.[7] Borland's guitar playing also has unevenly accented syncopated sixteenth notes to create a disorienting effect, and hypnotic, droning licks.[7] The song "Stuck" uses a sustain pedal in the first bar, and muted riffs in the second bar.[7]
Durst's lyrics are often profane, scatological or angry.[8] Much of Durst's lyrical inspiration came from growing up and his personal life.[4] His breakup with her inspired the Significant Other songs "Nookie" and "Re-Arranged".[9]
Collected did not chart. Allmusic's James Christopher Monger gave the album 2.5 out of 5, writing "Fans of the raucous rap/nu/alternative metal outfit would be better off with 2005's Greatest Hitz compilation".[1]
^Kitts, Jeff; Tolinski, Brad (2002). "Lords Of Hard Rock: Wes Borland". The 100 Greatest Guitarists Of All Time. Hal Leonard Corporation. pp. 3–4. ISBN0-634-04619-5.
^ abcHurwitz, Tobias; Riley, Glenn (June 1, 2002). "Rhythm guitar riffs in the style of Wes Borland". 7-String Guitar. Alfred Music Publishing. pp. 30–2. ISBN0-7390-2807-3.