Track Zero

Launched in the fall of 2023, Track Zero is a concert series that introduces Englert audiences to fresh, rising artists who are defining the next wave of alternative music.

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Track Zero targets adventurous listeners with a desire to discover new sounds that intersect a variety of genres including indie pop, folk, R&B, and alternative. Originally conceived by our former Programming Coordinator, Elly Hofmaier, this series was created to expand our community’s expectations of what art and music can be.

Track Zero’s name is a reference to the hidden or secret tracks that some artists place in their physical media like CDs, cassette tapes, and vinyls that are undetectable to the casual listener. This is a nod to how Track Zero aims to reach beyond the mainstream, with a focus on up-and-coming and independent artists.

Since launching in 2023, the series has been presented year-round at various intimate venues throughout downtown Iowa City including The James Theater, Gabe’s, and The Englert. The inaugural Track Zero show featured chamber pop multi-instrumentalist Emily Wells on September 20 at The James, along with opener Lex Leto.

The first season of Track Zero shows also included rapper Kassa Overall, indie songwriter Kate Bollinger, groovy duo Tennis, jazz & hip-hop fusion artist Sen Morimoto, and alt-pop musician Zora. Local support artists included Jack Lion, Tahjia Brantley, 24thankyou, KL!NG, Sarahann Kolder, and YXNG RASKAL.

Stay tuned for more Track Zero shows announcing for 2025!