Artcell

Artcell was formed in 1999 by four school friends who shared a deep passion for rock and metal music, united by their desire to create something original in Bangladesh’s then-nascent rock scene. George Lincoln D’Costa (vocals and rhythm guitar), Ershad Zaman (lead guitar), Saef Al Nazi - Cézanne (bass), and Kazi Sajjadul Asheqeen - Shaju (drums) first met during their school/college years in Dhaka, bonding over their mutual love for bands like Metallica, Dream Theater, Sepultura, Pink Floyd etc. Their friendship grew stronger through countless jam sessions, where they experimented with different sounds and compositions. This close-knit relationship, built on trust and shared musical vision, laid the foundation for Artcell’s formation. They officially came together on October, 1999, channeling their collective creativity and youthful energy into crafting a progressive metal sound that was unprecedented in Bangladesh. The band’s name, "Artcell," was chosen to reflect a blend of artistic sensibility and technical prowess, setting them apart from typical metal acts. Their companionship and complementary talents allowed them to push musical boundaries, with each member contributing distinct elements that shaped the band’s unique identity. This strong personal and artistic connection among the founding members was crucial in navigating early challenges and setting Artcell on a path to becoming one of Bangladesh’s most influential rock bands.

The Transitional Era: Departures and Adaptation (2010–2020):
In 2010, drummer Shaju moved to Australia, followed by bassist Cézanne in 2012. Their departures marked a challenging period for the band, as two of the original four members were now based abroad. Despite these changes, Artcell remained committed to their music and fans.

During this era, Lincoln became the driving force behind Artcell, ensuring the band’s continued activity and relevance. Artcell performed at various concerts and festivals, often featuring a rotating lineup of talented guest musicians from the Bangladeshi rock scene. The band’s ability to adapt and maintain their signature sound, even with changing lineups, demonstrated their resilience and the strength of their core musical vision.

In 2018, the band welcomed Kazi Faisal Ahmed (of Metal Maze fame) as their new lead guitarist. His inclusion revitalized Artcell’s sound and marked the beginning of a new creative chapter. Faisal’s technical prowess and stage presence complemented Lincoln’s leadership, helping to bridge the band’s classic and contemporary eras.

In 2019, Shaju returned to Bangladesh to help organize Artcell’s 20th anniversary concert—a landmark event that reaffirmed the band’s enduring popularity. From 2020 onwards, Shaju settled back in Dhaka and resumed his role as the band’s drummer, bringing stability and renewed momentum to Artcell’s activities.

Throughout their journey, Artcell benefited from the mentorship of renowned musician and producer Iqbal Asif Jewel, who guided them from the beginning with his experience as a renowned musician and producer. His close association with the band eventually led to him officially joining Artcell as a lead guitarist just before the release of their long-awaited third album, Otritiyo (2023), adding a fresh dimension to their sound.

Legacy and Impact:
Artcell’s journey from school/college friends to icons of Bangladeshi progressive rock is marked by artistic innovation, technical mastery, and a deep connection with their audience. Artcell’s journey is a story of friendship, artistic integrity, and an unbreakable bond with their fans. Their underground roots, groundbreaking albums, innovative sound, profound lyrics and loyal fanbase have left a permanent mark on Bangladesh’s music landscape, inspiring generations of musicians and fans. The band’s story is one of resilience and creativity, making them a true cult phenomenon whose legacy continues to inspire.