Christian Kane Provides Leverage in Portland, Oregon

It was a picture-perfect night in Portland. The sky was clear and a cool breeze kept the temperature mild; it was ideal for spending some time outside. And that's just what fans of Christian Kane did as they stood on the sidewalk waiting to get into Dante's, a club in the entertainment district of the Oregon city.

Currently one of the stars of TNT's hit television show, Leverage, Christian is also an accomplished singer and musician - and for the second year in a row, people have come from all over the world to experience Kane's brand of country and southern rock music. All over the world is not an exaggeration - fans from as far away as England have come to town for just one show. And anyone who has seen the band perform will tell you their trip, no matter how long, was completely worth it.

Kane was founded in 1998 by Christian and fellow guitarist, Steve Carlson. Though now out of print, they released a self-titled CD in 2000. It is often seen on eBay, generally selling for well over $100. They also put out a live album, recorded in London, in 2004. Steve has released five albums on his own and along with Darren Sher formed a production company called The Sound Parlor. The band now also consists of lead guitarist Jason Southard, drummer Ryan Baker, and Portland's own Will Amend on bass.

These guys definitely know what they're doing, and no doubt there's more than a bit of planning involved in every performance, but they aren't tied down. They take their cue from the audience; soaking up the energy and emotion of their fans and throwing it back out to the room. It's no secret that the boys enjoy themselves and their good time is infectious.

Christian writes or co-writes his songs and his voice is the perfect blend of snarl and purr. He completely controls the stage as soon as he walks out, but he doesn't overshadow his fellow musicians. There is a lot of interaction and everyone gets time in the spotlight.

The hour-long set includes the fan-favorite song House Rules, which is being released as a single in early September. A video was filmed at Dante's with loyal concert-goers tapped to be extras. The song is available as a free download on Christian's website and featured on a 5-song EP that can also be purchased on the site. A new song, Thinking of You, was featured on a recent episode of Leverage and is also available.

Kane has performed to capacity crowds again this summer. People start arriving as early as 3:30 and by the time the doors open five hours later, the line stretches all the way down the street. Time is passed talking about discovering the music and discussing the various roles Christian has played over the years. More than a few have been fans since his days on Angel where he played Lindsey McDonald from 1999-2004. There's something almost magical in the way friendships have formed while waiting to get inside the club.

This year, local duo, Cloverdayle, has been opening the shows. Chad Hamar's acoustic guitar work is the perfect accompaniment to Rachel Hamar's blazing vocals. Chosen as the local "Next Big Star" by Kenny Chesney in 2008, they shared the stage with him on his Poets and Pirates show at the Clark County Amphitheater. They have also opened for Lady Antebellum, Josh Turner, Jason Aldean, and Tim McGraw among others. The talented pair has earned a few more fans among the Kane crowd.

Sadly, July 17 was the last Kane show at Dante's for the year. There's no word yet on whether or not Leverage will be renewed, though its ratings are strong. It will probably see a fourth season, but that doesn't mean filming will continue in Portland. But Kane is planning a tour to support the release of their album and the next time fans can see them is September 3 at the Oregon State Fair in Salem.

Do yourself a favor and check them out. You won't be disappointed and might even make some new friends.