“New Boots, New Roots” Brings Modern Country to Albert Music Hall

WARETOWN, NJ — Special event highlights the evolution of country music from the 1990s to today’s contemporary sound.

On any given night at Albert Music Hall, audiences are more likely to hear early honky-tonk or the songs of Johnny Cash than the modern country sounds of artists like Luke Combs or Miranda Lambert. That will change on April 25, when the Hall leans into the modern era with a special themed show dedicated to new country music.

Titled New Boots, New Roots, the show highlights the evolution of country music, from the influential sounds of the 1990s to the newer styles shaping the genre today. The evening marks the Hall’s first show focused entirely on modern country, offering audiences a chance to experience a different side of a genre that has become one of the most popular in the United States.

Five performers will take the stage, each bringing their own take on contemporary country: Butch Ralph, Kenny K & The Way, Anthony², Billy T Midnight, and Captain Dave & High Tide.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with music beginning at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $6 for adults and $1 for children under 12. Parking is free, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Guests should note that Albert Music Hall is a cash-only facility.

In addition to the performances, the Hall’s newly renovated Pickin’ Shed will be open throughout the evening for informal jam sessions. Musicians of all skill levels are encouraged to bring an instrument and join in.

Food will be available for purchase, including pulled pork, kielbasa and kraut, meatballs, cheeseburgers, and hot dogs. Vegan chik’n patties are available upon request, along with Amish desserts priced at $3 each. The gift shop will also be open, featuring Albert Music Hall merchandise, music-related items, Pinelands-themed goods, and books on local music and history. A 50/50 drawing will also be held during the event. The venue is wheelchair accessible and parking is free.

Organizers invite the community to attend and enjoy a night where newer country sounds take center stage at the historic venue.

Albert Music Hall is operated by the Pinelands Cultural & Historical Preservation Society (PCS), an all-volunteer nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the New Jersey Pinelands. The Hall is located at 131 Wells Mills Road, Waretown, NJ 08758

Since 1974, the “Sounds of the Jersey Pines” have echoed through Albert Music Hall in Waretown. Every Saturday night, the hall comes alive with Bluegrass, Country, Folk, Americana, Old-Time, and Pinelands music, honoring Joe and George Albert, whose 1950s jam sessions at their cabin, the “Home Place,” inspired the tradition. Today, hundreds of musicians continue that legacy, sharing the region’s vibrant musical heritage.

For more information visit alberthall.org.