The diverse and ever-exciting Mission Creek festival is returning to Iowa City, bringing the best of indie, alternative, and even some new spins on classical. Here are the shows not to miss:

Father John Misty: After playing with bands like Fleet Foxes and Saxon Shore, drummer, guitarist, and folk virtuoso Joshua Tillman, aka Father John Misty, has set out on his own. His first two albums, Fear Fun and I Love You, Honeybear, have been met with critical acclaim, and he’s been called the most exciting rising star in the folk scene. Don’t miss him playing at the Englert at 7:00 p.m., April 5th.

Glenn Kotche & Jeffrey Zeigler: This creative pair of Wilco drummer Glenn Kotche and renowned cellist Jeffrey Zeigler has already proven that they are original and inventive with the track “Something of Life.” The pair plays at the Englert Theater at 7:00 p.m., March 31st.

The Sea and Cake: Forming in the mid 90’s from members of alt rock bands like Tortoise, The Sea and Cake presents an interesting indie pop-rock sound reminiscent of the late 90’s, while still maintaining a unique style. Catch them at the Mill at 9:00 p.m., April 3rd.

Sir Richard Bishop: Bishop is an experimental guitarist with 10 solo albums to his credit, blending electronic effects and european and middle-eastern influences to create a distinct sound that’s been captivating live audiences for over a decade. See him at the Trumpet Blossom Cafe at 9:00 p.m., April 3rd.

Sidewalk Chalk: Hailing from Chicago, this group combines live jazz music with soul vocals and hip-hop, creating a style that’s amazing both on and off the stage. One of their performance tricks includes a song that’s entirely freestyle, called “I Spy.” Watch them at the Yacht Club at 9:00 p.m., April 1st.

Ben Frost: Renowned composer, sought-after collaborator, and Pitchfork-acclaimed electronic artist Ben Frost has written operas and film soundtracks, and even scored his own dances. His last release, A U R O R A, has been hailed as his best release to date. Hear him at Gabe’s at 8:00 p.m. on March 31st.

Freddie Gibbs: Straight out of Gary, Indiana, Gibbs brings the “thug rap” style that blends experimental flow with complex beats. Gibbs has made a real name for himself in the world of hip hop. Check him out on April 2nd, at 9:00 p.m. at the Blue Moose Tap House.

(normally we would put an example of his stuff here, but we’re a school publication, and apparently he’s just too raw for a school environment)