You've given a good, detailed summary. For me, the most welcoming place to start is the earlier VU stuff that's in an inventive pop vein: the self titled album, and "Loaded."
I agree that (the much later) "Songs for Drella" has some excellent, thoughtful tunes. It's worth reading the liner notes so you can understand what some of the songs are about, especially about the shooting of Andy.
i agree that Loaded is the best place to start with VU. if you don't like that then you're unlikely to prefer the noisier stuff, in which case i would say that Blue Mask is the second best place to start.
if you don't like Blue Mask, then go back and listen to Sister Ray or European Son, just to cover your bases.
if none of that is working for you then you can stick with the Boss, he's great too.
I agree that (the much later) "Songs for Drella" has some excellent, thoughtful tunes. It's worth reading the liner notes so you can understand what some of the songs are about, especially about the shooting of Andy.