Balens Klerede (pronounced: balance clarity) is an independent hip-hop artist who launched a brand new solo project in 2023. The veteran rapper has been rhyming ever since the 1980s, when he was competing in rap battles on the streets of South Central Los Angeles. Back then he went by the name MC Slayer.
The rapper’s career has traversed many changes since those early days. Throughout the early 2000s he was known as Strainj and made comedic, often raunchy rap. During that time he toured the United States, sharing the stage and studio with legends like Afroman and DJ MR Mixx from the 2 Live Crew.
Now known as Balens Klerede, the rapper recently teamed up with Colorado-based hip-hop producer Ol’ Man Science. Introduced to one another by mutual friend Eternal Mind, they bonded over a shared spiritual and musical vision. On their debut collaboration, the duo introduces an otherworldly vibe set to boom-bap beats.
The Science of Klerede is the brand new 6-song EP from Balens Klerede, released worldwide via all major streaming services on August 18, 2023. “Alchemical Inventory” opens the record on a laid-back, downtempo organic vibe. On the mic the rapper sets the context, offering the precepts for his cosmic philosophy. DJ Soul-O joins Balens for some P-Funk style psychedelia on “Flying Pyramids”, as they chase UFOs through the American Southwest.
“Breathing Underwater” rides a cool 90’s West Coast low-rider groove. Acid-rock guitar riffs paints the edges of the mix as Balens and guest vocalist More Bounce lay down a chilled, spiritual, and sexy slow jam. “The Mortal Dissension Tour” follows, with a dark and haunted storytelling rap. “Deity Disturbance” shifts the mood back into the Akashic field with a trippy beat and a no-nonsense supernatural freestyle sermon. The record closes with “Iniquitous Initiations”, riding out on slow funk of a classic Compton groove.
Check out the “Deity Disturbance” video below. You can also hear that song and “Breathing Under Water ” on the Deep Dive: Hip-hop and R&B playlist. Or listen to the entire EP The Science of Klerede on your favorite streaming service. Follow the links below to connect with Balens Klerede.