And now, the brand new video for Janelle Monae‘s new single, “Tightrope,” featuring Big Boi.

Not only does the clip contain ample amounts of toe-tipping and hallway grooving, but it also pays tribute to one of Hollywood’s first independent, avant garde filmmakers, Maya Deren.

See the mirror men? They’re from her 1943 short film, “Meshes of the Afternoon,” which was the first video I ever saw in my Independent Cinema class. Look Mommy–my college education paid off!

If you asked me a year ago if a pop artist would ever reference Maya Deren in her work, I would have burst out laughing. Lady Gaga, eat your obscure cultural reference loving heart out.

It seems like it’s been eons since her fabulous EP debut, but Janelle Monáe‘s debut is finally bracing for landing: The ArchAndroid, Janelle’s first full-length LP, will be released on May 18, 2010.

In honor of the announcement, Monae is releasing two new tracks for world consumption right now: “Tightrope (ft. Big Boi)” and “Cold War,” both of which can be found for download and full stream on her official website now.

While “Tightrope” is nice and all, “Cold War” is where it’s truly at. The song is an absolute killer!

In the meantime, the funky fresh cyborg princess will be embarking on a US tour in March and April. Check below to see if Janelle’s coming through your area!

MARCH
15 Washington, DC Black Cat
17 Philadelphia, PA Johnny Brenda’s
18 Philadelphia, PA Johnny Brenda’s
21 San Francisco, CA Café Du Nord
22 San Francisco, CA Café Du Nord
23 Los Angeles, CA The Viper Room
24 Los Angeles, CA The Viper Room
29 Chicago, IL Schubas Tavern
30 Chicago, IL Schubas Tavern
31 Minneapolis, MN Varsity Theater

APRIL
2 St. Andrews Detroit, MI
5 Smith’s Olde Bar Atlanta, GA
6 Smith’s Olde Bar Atlanta, GA
9 Joe’s Pub New York, NY
10 Joe’s Pub New York, NY