Artcell to perform without Lincoln as Bakhtiar Hossain joins as touring vocalist

Bangladeshi progressive metal pioneers Artcell have announced that they will continue performing local concerts without founding frontman George Lincoln D'Costa, who is currently residing in Canada due to personal commitments. Former Bay of Bengal vocalist Bakhtiar Hossain has joined the band as a touring vocalist for its shows in Bangladesh.

The decision was confirmed by Artcell drummer Kazi Asheqeen Shaju, who said the band's upcoming performance on 10 July at the X Force Presents Overload Festival at the Hall of Fame, BCFICC, in Dhaka will mark the first time Artcell takes the stage in Bangladesh without Lincoln.

"Bakhtiar will perform as our vocalist and will accompany us as a touring member at our local concerts," Shaju said. "It was a tough decision, but all of us, including Lincoln, agreed that if we continued waiting indefinitely for his return, people might eventually forget our existence. To keep the band active and alive, this step became necessary."

Lincoln, speaking in a video message shared by the band, expressed his support for the move. "This is the first time in 27 years that I have been away from the country, my band, and my fans for such a long period. The journey of Artcell cannot stop because of one person. The show must go on, and we believe Bakhtiar understands the legacy of Artcell. We are welcoming him into our family," he said.

Shaju clarified that Lincoln will continue to perform with the band during international shows, particularly in Canada.

Bakhtiar Hossain, who announced his departure from rock band Bay of Bengal in January this year after 15 years with the group, brings considerable stage experience to Artcell's live performances.

Founded in 1999, Artcell's current lineup includes bassist Saef Al Nazi Cézanne, drummer Shaju, and guitarists Kazi Faisal Ahmed and Iqbal Asif Jewel. The band will share the Overload Festival stage with Aurthohin and Cryptic Fate.