“I would like to thank Kiko for his dedication and hard work these past nine years”: Kiko Loureiro leaves Megadeth, Dave Mustaine confirms Teemu Mäntysaari as replacement

It looks like the end of an era for Megadeth as Kiko Loureiro has announced an “extended leave of absence” from the band after nine years of service, with Dave Mustaine paying tribute to his outgoing electric guitar maverick and announcing his replacement. Loureiro had stepped down from touring duties in September owing to family reasons, with Finnish metal guitar ace Teemu Mäntysaari standing in for Megadeth’s autumn dates. But the situation has not changed, and with the thrash institution …