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DATURA formed in 2018 in Wenatchee, Washington, carving out an identity that draws deeply from post-punk and goth-rock luminaries including The Chameleons, The Cure, Siouxsie and the Banshees, early Dead Can Dance, and Depeche Mode. Initially self-releasing two EPs, DATURA signed with Sell the Heart Records (Berkeley, California) in 2021 and released their debut full-length album in 2022. Arcano Chemical received critical praise for its melancholic catchiness and haunting atmosphere.
The band’s sophomore LP was released in April 2025 via Sell the Heart Records and in collaboration with Poland’s Bat-Cave Productions and the UK’s Engineer Records. Songs from a Dark House introduces a more upbeat, driving side to DATURA’s repertoire and touches thematically on burnout, addiction, isolation, and war. Journalist Timothy Anderl describes the album as “the danceable darkwave soundtrack of your next panic attack,” and Devolution Magazine notes that “DATURA derives a lot of power from reduced numbers and creates haunting soundscapes that are bigger than their constituent parts.”
Following a lineup change in 2025 marking the departure of longtime drummer Tiffany Shafer, DATURA is composed of David Betancourt (vocalist, guitarist), Jake St. John (bassist), and Dustin Hays (drummer). The band continues to evolve its sound with a sharp focus on intensity and danceability while expanding into new markets.
In 2026, DATURA continues to build momentum with appearances at Verboden and MACROCK XXIX, as well as touring the American Southwest and East Coast. The band is also preparing to enter the studio to record their third full-length album. A short documentary produced by Lili Minato, a student at Western Oregon University, offers a closer look at DATURA’s trajectory within the modern darkwave and post-punk landscape.
You can reach Datura through email at daturapnw@gmail.com
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