Local Americana Stars Headline North 2 Shore Festival
Emerson Woolf & The Wishbones will bring their magnetic blend of Americana and indie pop to Asbury Lanes on June 20, 2025, as part of the expansive North 2 Shore Festival programming. The performance showcases one of the region’s most compelling emerging acts alongside local legends James Dalton and The Ryan Gregg Trio.
This triple-bill event at the recently renovated bowling alley-turned-music venue represents the festival’s commitment to highlighting local talent while providing audiences with diverse musical experiences throughout New Jersey’s iconic coastal cities.
Rising Stars Meet Established Local Legends
Emerson Woolf & The Wishbones have quickly established themselves as a formidable presence in the regional Americana scene, known for crafting songs that balance emotional depth with accessible melodies. The band’s performances are characterized by their dynamic stage presence and deeply personal lyrics that resonate with audiences across generational divides.
“Their sound bridges the gap between traditional Americana storytelling and contemporary indie sensibilities,” said festival curator Maria Sanchez. “This is exactly the kind of artistry the festival aims to elevate—authentic, emotionally resonant music that speaks to both the heart and the feet.”
Supporting the headliners are two established local favorites. James Dalton, described by festival organizers as “a storyteller, poet and musician,” brings his weathered wisdom and folk influences to the stage. His performances draw from years of experience playing everywhere from prestigious theaters to subway platforms, creating an intimate connection with audiences through authentic delivery.
Asbury Lanes Continues Musical Renaissance
Asbury Lanes, located at 209 4th Avenue, represents Asbury Park’s successful blend of preserving historical character while embracing contemporary culture. The venue’s 2018 renovation maintained its retro bowling alley aesthetic while upgrading its performance capabilities, creating one of the shore’s most distinctive music spaces.
The venue has become central to Asbury Park’s musical renaissance, hosting both national touring acts and local performers in an atmosphere that encourages musical discovery. Its participation in the North 2 Shore Festival continues this tradition of supporting emerging artists within the vibrant local music scene.
“There’s something magical about the atmosphere at Asbury Lanes,” noted Thomas Klein, North 2 Shore Festival director. “The combination of its unique aesthetic and exceptional sound system creates this perfect environment for experiencing live music in an authentic way that’s distinctly ‘Jersey Shore.'”
Festival Spotlights Regional Creative Ecosystem
The Emerson Woolf & The Wishbones performance exemplifies the North 2 Shore Festival’s mission to showcase the Garden State’s artistic diversity. According to New Jersey Stage, the festival will feature nearly 400 events across Asbury Park, Newark, and Atlantic City from June 14-29, with Atlantic City programming extending throughout the year.
Beyond highlighting established performers, the festival’s Community Arts Awards initiative has provided nearly $400,000 in funding to local artists and organizations, ensuring community-based arts events remain accessible to all throughout the festival period.
The Ryan Gregg Trio rounds out the bill with their masterful piano-driven compositions that echo American roots music traditions while incorporating contemporary influences. Their set promises to explore themes of “loss, redemption and hope” through sophisticated arrangements that showcase Gregg’s virtuosic keyboard skills.
Tickets and Additional Information
The performance begins at 7:00 PM on Friday, June 20, with doors opening at 6:00 PM. Tickets are available through the official North 2 Shore Festival website and Asbury Lanes box office, priced at $18 in advance and $22 day of show.
Festival organizers recommend arriving early to experience the full Asbury Lanes atmosphere, including its restaurant and bar offerings. The venue’s central location makes it easily accessible from other festival events happening throughout Asbury Park that weekend.
The North 2 Shore Festival, described as “the festival only Jersey can handle,” continues through June 29 with programming that spans music, comedy, film, and technology events across its three host cities.
