Portland musician releases new lo-fi single exploring emotional survival in a chaotic world
Portland-based artist Dylan Pacheco, under his new project Cautious Driver, has released a lo-fi single titled Make It Make Sense, which delves into themes of self-care and emotional resilience in a tumultuous world. The track, predominantly recorded on an Omnichord—an electronic toy keyboard, is accompanied by a lo-fi drum loop, creating an intimate and introspective atmosphere that captivates listeners.
Reflecting on the creative process behind the single, Pacheco mentions the band’s transition from using the Omnichord to incorporating a full rock band, highlighting the experimental and spontaneous nature of their musical exploration. Since its inception in spring 2024, after Pacheco relocated from Austin to Portland and rekindled his passion for songwriting, Cautious Driver has evolved into a trio with Jack Knopp on drums and Kevin Pickard on bass. Following Pickard’s departure to start a family, Pacheco and Knopp continued their musical journey as a duo, with the addition of Chance St. George on bass for future performances.
With influences ranging from Advance Base, Casiotone for the Painfully Alone, Palehound, Alex G, and Cassandra Jenkins, Pacheco infuses his music with elements of melancholy, dry humor, and personal reflection. Drawing inspiration from various sources such as 90s guitar bands, punk rock ethos, Bruce Springsteen, and everyday experiences like sobriety and dismantling patriarchal norms, Cautious Driver’s lyrical content is both introspective and socially conscious.
Embracing a flexible and exploratory approach to songwriting, Pacheco emphasizes the band’s commitment to pushing boundaries and defying conventional expectations of genre and style. As Cautious Driver navigates the Portland music scene, Pacheco expresses admiration for local bands like Myriads, Speckle, A Lot Of Water, Little Dog, and Drinking Bleach, acknowledging the rich musical heritage of the Pacific Northwest that has influenced his artistic development.
Looking ahead, Cautious Driver aims to continue releasing new singles and potentially embark on a regional tour, while maintaining a sustainable and enjoyable creative process. Pacheco’s artistic vision revolves around authenticity, collaboration with like-minded individuals, and a genuine love for music-making, prioritizing the journey of creation over the final outcome. As the band explores new sonic territories and forges connections within the music community, Cautious Driver remains dedicated to cultivating a meaningful and fulfilling musical experience for both themselves and their audience.