Longtime Megadeth guitarist Kiko Loureiro introduced in an announcement on Sunday (Nov. 19) that he and Megadeth have determined to completely half methods with one another after the two events “collectively agreed that it is the right move to extend my absence.”
Loureiro already wasn’t touring with the group — he had stepped away from the Dave Mustaine-led outfit in September to are inclined to a household matter, as the guitarist defined at the moment.
Megadeth performed their first present with Loureiro’s fill-in, guitarist Teemu Mäntysaari, on Sept. 6, simply in the future after the band revealed Mäntysaari would sub in. Now, it seems Mäntysaari might be the new everlasting guitarist in Loureiro’s absence.
READ MORE: Megadeth Guitarist Kiko Loureiro Pulls Out of Tour, Fill-In Member Announced
Loureiro, previously of the band Angra, joined Megadeth in 2015, supplanting the guitarist Chris Broderick. In the studio, Loureiro contributed to the Megadeth albums Dystopia (2016) and their newest full-length, The Sick, the Dying… and the Dead! (2022).
Besides Mustaine, Megadeth’s different present full-time members are drummer Dirk Verbeuren and bassist James LoMenzo. LoMenzo changed longtime Megadeth bassist David Ellefson for touring in 2022 after the band and Ellefson parted methods the 12 months prior.
Below, learn Loureiro’s message to Megadeth followers.
Dear Megadeth followers,
I need to share with you a call that hasn’t been straightforward for me.
In September, I needed to step away from the U.S. leg of the tour for household causes. Looking forward, throughout 2024, we anticipate a good heavier touring schedule for Megadeth. After thorough reflection and discussions with Dave Mustaine and Megadeth’s administration, we’ve collectively agreed that it’s the proper transfer to increase my absence. I do not need to hinder any of the band’s plans or the laborious work of all the unimaginable individuals concerned in the tour.
My 9 years with Megadeth have been an unbelievable journey, stuffed with numerous ‘pinch-me’ moments. Unforgettable excursions, a Grammy Award for ‘Dystopia,’ a Grammy nomination, and numerous accolades for “The Sick, The Dying, and The Dead” are only a few of the highlights. It is difficult to place into phrases the magnitude of those experiences. I’m positive any heavy metallic fan can respect how unimaginable it’s to play and create music in a band you grew up listening to, and to share the stage with a guitar legend like Dave Mustaine, together with phenomenal musicians like James LoMenzo and Dirk Verbeuren, to not point out our unimaginable crew.
However, the most cherished side of those 9 years has been attending to know the unimaginable military of devoted Megadeth followers round the world. Your dedication is inspiring, and I’ve immense admiration and respect for all of you.
Much love, see you quickly!
Kiko Loureiro
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