Obvious comparisons to Sinead O'Connor's "Nothing Compares 2 U" video aside, Janelle Monae's video for "Cold War" strikes a jarring contrast. The song's driving beat coupled with a close-up of Monae--alone, singing, struggling not to cry--is a notable departure from her two-toned tuxwear and James Brown-like spasm dancing. I love her character--but seeing the singer behind it is cool, too.