Artcell to Perform Without Lincoln in Bangladesh Shows

One of Bangladesh’s most influential progressive rock and heavy metal acts, Artcell, is set to continue its local concert activities without its longtime frontman and founding member George Lincoln D’Costa, who is currently based in Canada due to personal commitments.

The band has confirmed that former Bay of Bengal vocalist Bakhtiar Hossain will step in as a touring vocalist for upcoming performances in Bangladesh, marking a notable shift in its live lineup while preserving its ongoing stage presence.

The development was confirmed by drummer Kazi Sajjadul Asheqeen Shaju in a statement to The Daily Star, alongside a video message featuring the band members addressing their fans directly. The announcement comes after a prolonged period of uncertainty surrounding Lincoln’s availability for live shows.

In the video, George Lincoln D’Costa reflected on his extended absence from Bangladesh and the group’s live circuit, describing it as the first time in 27 years he has been away from both the country and the band for such a long stretch. He noted that while the situation was unavoidable, the band’s continuity should not depend on a single individual.

He emphasised that the “journey of Artcell cannot stop because of one person” and expressed confidence that Bakhtiar understood the band’s musical identity and legacy.

Drummer Shaju said the upcoming concert on 10 July at the Bangladesh-China Friendship International Conference Centre in Dhaka will be the first time the band performs in Bangladesh without Lincoln on stage. He added that Bakhtiar will serve as a touring member for local shows, allowing the band to maintain its live commitments.

The band also highlighted the importance of transparency with its audience, explaining that their connection with fans is built largely through live performances. According to Shaju, the decision was not taken lightly, but waiting indefinitely for Lincoln’s return risked halting the band’s activity altogether.

He further clarified that Lincoln will continue performing with the band during international appearances, particularly in Canada, ensuring that his role within the group remains intact despite geographical limitations.

Guitarist Kazi Faisal Ahmed described the period as a difficult one for the band, noting that performances had been paused while awaiting Lincoln’s return. Veteran guitarist Iqbal Asif Jewel also stressed that the band’s legacy and philosophy must continue, adding that the decision had been made with mutual understanding.

Formed in 1999, Artcell has long been regarded as a pioneering force in Bangladesh’s progressive metal scene. The current lineup includes bassist Saef Al Nazi Cézanne, drummer Shaju, and guitarists Faisal Ahmed and Iqbal Asif Jewel.

The band is scheduled to perform at the X Force Presents Overload Festival on 10 July at the Hall of Fame, BCFICC, alongside other prominent acts including Aurthohin and Cryptic Fate. As Artcell prepares for this new phase in its live journey, the group says it remains committed to preserving its musical identity while adapting to changing circumstances.