FREEHOLD, NJ (AP): Bruce Springsteen surprised moviegoers by introducing his new concert film in his New Jersey hometown.

The Asbury Park Press reports Springsteen introduced two showings of Western Stars at the AMC Loews Freehold Metroplex Cinema in Freehold on Saturday.

Springsteen is a native of Freehold borough. 

Springsteen told audiences that since his band knew it wasn't going to tour, he had to try to figure out a way to bring the music to his audience.

Western Stars is a concert film shot in a barn in front of a small audience at Springsteen's property in Colts Neck.

The music album Western Stars was released in June. 

A second preview screening is scheduled for Wednesday. The film hits theatres on Friday.