Is there anything better than boarding down a snow covered hill in the sun? I can’t think of anything! So, for one lucky winner, I have one Nidecker Platinum size 158 to give away for free. Just send me an e-mail!

I told you a few months ago about the exhibition Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson has at the Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst called ‘The Visitors’. The exhibition comes to an end on the 27^th January but if you went you’ll know music is integral to Kjartansson’s art. On Thursday evening he will be bringing a selection of his eclectic music collection to Zurich, and in discussion with Austrian musical guru Edek Bartz, we will be led on a magical mystery tour of musical mayhem as they discuss and play the music that inspires him. Expect the unexpected. The event is in English and with free entry.
Thursday 7 pm, Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst

If you want a definition of cool then you wouldn’t go far wrong starting with the man who is musical curator for the Parisian cult radio station Radio Nova. Blundetto has also released a couple of albums over the last few years that ooze a certain French sophistication and soul. He’ll be djing at Stall 6 on Friday evening alongside Oliver Scotini, Zurich’s own cult radio guru over at rundfunk.fm. If you’re looking for musical selections of the highest quality, then these guys would seem to be the ones you’re looking for.
Friday 10 pm, Stall 6

David Thayer has Columbian roots, was born in California and relocated to Switzerland a few years ago. He portrayed the Rio Bogota and the people who live at its shore in an emotional documentary. The film shows how difficult change is to accomplish, even when it’s necessary – the river is most likely the dirtiest worldwide. The film is screened for the first time in Switzerland (with German and English subtitles) on Saturday at Walcheturm. Followed by concerts.
Saturday 7.30 pm, Walcheturm

During the noughties, Conor Oberst was trading under the name Bright Eyes and, for a time, seemed to become the voice of the post-millennial emo generation before the folk styling’s he always seemed to prefer took him back from the angsty edge he almost toppled over. He’s now a solo artist but still retains a talent for song writing that throws his emotions in the air and lets them fall directly onto your heart.  He plays at the Volkshaus on Sunday. Make sure you get there early as support act First Aid Kit are great and have a charm all their own.
Sunday 8 pm, Volkshaus

If you’re looking for a burst of energy to get you through these grey days of January then the oddly names Danish band Spleen United might just have the oomph you’re looking for. They’re playing at Hafenkneipe on Tuesday and bring with them from the North a stomping electro/synth rock sound that will let you bounce around the small, sweaty venue until the last of your January blues have been stomped into submission. 
Tuesday 8.30 pm, Hafenkneipe

When the view is good and you know what to look out for, you’re able to spot Vrenelis Gärtli high up in the mountains from the bridge by the lake (Quaibrücke). A white square (which is why it’s called garden) in the Glarner Alps, 2000 metres above the Klöntalersee. If you use binoculars, you might see a bench made of stone. A gift from Glarus to Zurich – one square meter rock. I like the idea that Zurich is everywhere! You can also hike there (in the summer). It’s usually a two day tour with a professional guide: A beautiful, not difficult, glacier tour with great views. Might be something to put on your what-I-intend-to-do-in-2013-list.

Skinmoon.com provides a platform for professionals in the fashion industry (models, designers, labels, make-up artists, stylists, journalists, photographers…). If you register you can build up your network, socialise, further your career, engage in projects, collaborate and keep up-to-date with the latest fashion events taking place in Zurich and other cities. A must for all fashionistas.

Globalisation also has a down side – often in the form of neglected social and environmental responsibilities. Each year, when the international corporate and political word meet at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Public Eye reminds them that misdeeds have consequences - the most evil offenses appear on the shortlist of the Public Eye Awards. Seven companies are listed as the worst company of the year. You can cast your vote until the end of the week (the WEF takes place from 23-27 January).

Should January be a time of excitement for the new year or of reflection on the past one? If you’re not sure, do what I do and confuse yourself with both. Here’s a couple of old-ish songs I’ve been listening to this week to enhance the confusion. Take your pick – reflection or excitement.