To try and categorize Singapore’s The Observatory is to flounder amid labels that don’t stick: This technically-proficient yet soulful sextet draws influences from classical, jazz, experimental and rock. Coming for their third show in Thailand (the 2005 Pattaya Music and Fat festivals were #1 and #2), so::on’s Signalized Soul, The Observatory is like your favorite plant—it just grows with time.

How has Blank Walls been received?
Leslie Low [vocals, guitar]: We seem to appeal to people who are laid-back and quiet. We’ve been fortunate to garner some interest locally, and there’s been a small group of supporters that attend our gigs. As for overseas, it’s been a slow climb up a steep hill. But we’re enjoying the climb so far.
Evan Tan [programmer, bass]: People, especially girls, have been telling me they prefer the first album, Time of Rebirth. But [these same] people later told me Blank Walls is a grower and that they understood why we were doing what we were doing.

Despite its plaintive beauty, your music is dense and Leslie’s lyrics are quite impressionistic. Does this prevent you from getting radio play and mainstream acceptance?
Vivian Wang [vocals, keyboard]: Singapore radio has serious hang-ups when it comes to something local, firstly, and secondly, when it doesn’t mimic the typical MTV/radio- friendly band, music and persona. It’s about ratings, as well as keeping advertisers happy.

Unlike your last two gigs here, the so::on show isn’t supported by a corporate sponsor and won’t be pulling in crowds in the thousands. Do you think your actions could influence more performers from the region to play smaller shows in Bangkok?
Leslie: As I’ve mentioned, we are quite independent ourselves. Corporate sponsorships or not, if the vibe is right for our music, we would definitely love to take part in it. Our music isn’t stadium rock [so] it actually works better for us not to play huge festivals.