Created and developed in Montreal’s DIY scene, Empty Melon (the solo project of Ada Lea bassist/producer Summer Kodama) follows up on her debut single, “Hoping to Find,” with “Don’t Look Away,” an atmospheric, dark, and emotionally charged song that transforms late-night spiralling into something strangely beautiful. Blending experimental electronics, art pop textures, and cinematic sound design, the track embraces discomfort rather than avoiding it, finding clarity through directness, vulnerability, and self-confrontation.

“Don’t Look Away” first emerged during a solitary drive in the early hours of the morning. “It started with spiralling while driving alone at 2am and improvising on the bass guitar,” Summer explains. What began as a fleeting emotional moment gradually evolved into a meditation on honesty, both with others and with oneself.

That commitment to honesty ultimately became the emotional core of the song. While the title may initially sound confrontational, for Summer it represents something much more personal.

What can you share with readers about your new project?

Created and developed in the DIY venues of Montreal, Empty Melon is the solo project of bassist and producer Summer Kodama. The project is a cinematic collision of live performance, hardware synths, and hybrid visual media.

Drawing from her experience as a jazz and classical bassist, session musician, and composer for theater and dance, Kodama crafts soundscapes rooted in experimental music, improvisation, and ambient electronics.

How does this release compare with other projects you’ve released in the past?

“Don’t Look Away” is my second single, and I see it as the “polar sibling” of my first single, “Hoping to Find.” They were written in the same month. One dances in the sunlight while the other emerges under the cover of night.

What about this single makes you most proud?

I think just getting it finished and out there makes me proud right now.

Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?

Not particularly. I will feel many more feelings and continue to write many more songs. I learned more about my workflow and how much of an impact small, yet consistent commitments can make.

What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?

I think Jeff Buckley used to say there is no art without ordinary life, and I agree. I feel particularly inspired by the influence of time, love, and nature.

If you could collaborate with anyone, dead or alive, famous or unknown, who would it be and why?

I would love to meet Genevieve Artadi soon. I’ve admired her honesty, songwriting, and particularly her ability to project both emotional resonance and light fun.

What was the last song you listened to? Who are some of your favorite artists of all time?

Haha, I think the last song I listened to was “Without a Song” from the Joe Henderson Big Band album.

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

Instagram: @emptymelon
Website: summerkomusic.com