Bangladesh’s influential progressive rock and heavy metal band Artcell is set to take the stage in domestic concerts without its long-standing lead vocalist and founding member, George Lincoln D’Costa, marking a significant shift in the group’s live performance history.
Lincoln is currently in Canada for personal reasons, according to information shared by the band. His absence has prompted a temporary restructuring of live vocal duties, with former Bay of Bengal frontman Bakhtiar Hossain confirmed as the touring vocalist for upcoming shows in Bangladesh.
The development was confirmed by the band’s drummer, Kazi Sazzadul Asheqin Shaju, who stated that the decision was made to ensure continuity in the group’s live activities. He emphasised that transparency with fans was a key factor in publicly announcing the change ahead of the scheduled performances.
Artcell addressed the situation through a video message in which Lincoln spoke candidly about his current absence. He reflected on his 27-year musical journey, noting that this is the first extended period he has been away from both the band and its audience. While acknowledging the emotional difficulty of the situation, he stressed that circumstances have made his temporary absence unavoidable. He also conveyed his belief that Artcell’s journey should not come to a halt due to the absence of a single member, particularly in the context of live performances.
The band is scheduled to perform on 10 July at the Bangladesh–China Friendship International Conference Centre in Dhaka. According to Shaju, this will be the first time Artcell performs on a major stage in Bangladesh without Lincoln as the lead vocalist, marking a notable moment in the band’s history.
Band members have indicated that prolonged uncertainty regarding Lincoln’s return risked delaying their live activities indefinitely. As live performances remain their primary means of connecting with audiences, they felt compelled to move forward with an alternative arrangement.
Guitarist Kazi Faisal Ahmed described the period as one defined by long waiting and uncertainty. He noted that, given the current circumstances, the band had little choice but to resume performances rather than remain inactive. Fellow guitarist Iqbal Asif Jewel characterised this phase as one of the most challenging in Artcell’s long career, while also expressing commitment to preserving the group’s creative identity and musical ethos.
Formed in 1999, Artcell has played a pioneering role in shaping Bangladesh’s progressive metal scene over more than two decades. The current lineup includes Saif Al Nazi Cezan, Kazi Sazzadul Asheqin Shaju, Kazi Faisal Ahmed, and Iqbal Asif Jewel, all of whom continue to carry forward the band’s established musical direction.
The upcoming concert will also feature other prominent bands, including Orthohin and Cryptic Fate, generating considerable anticipation among rock and metal enthusiasts in the country.
Despite the changes, Artcell has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing live performances, welcoming Bakhtiar Hossain into this transitional role while maintaining its long-standing artistic vision and connection with audiences.