Kiko Loureiro made a post on Instagram last Friday, the 27th, suggesting a possible similarity between one of his compositions and the new Arch Enemy song.
In the post, the guitarist shows excerpts from his composition "Talking Dreams," from the album Theory Of Mind (2024), with parts of the song "To The Last Breath," by the band Arch Enemy, released on February 19. In the caption, Kiko wrote: "Just helping to promote the new song by @archenemyofficial... you're welcome," and quickly sparked a discussion, albeit in a lighthearted tone, about possible plagiarism.
In the comments, former vocalist and current businesswoman Angela Gossow responded to the post:
“To be honest, I’d never heard Kiko’s music before. So, three notes are the same? Well, I guess that happens quite often in music. I’ve heard many Arch Enemy notes in other songs, but I would never accuse the other band of plagiarism… on the contrary, I would probably feel honored to inspire others. It’s sad to read a post like this from a guitarist we all respected. What’s the point of it? If you really think you have a case, get in touch and discuss it professionally, don’t make a post like this. Respectfully, the management team, who are used to dealing with this type of allegation and prefer to handle things carefully.”
Guitarist Michael Amott also joined the conversation, treating the situation as a joke between musicians: “Thanks, brother! Looks like I should pay more attention to your solo work! See you at @bangersopenair!”
The artists will perform at the Bangers Open Air, which takes place in São Paulo. Arch Enemy is the headliner on Saturday, April 25th, while Kiko Loureiro performs with Angraas the headliner on Sunday, April 26th. Tickets are on sale at the Clube do Ingresso website.
The impact of the post
Among fans, the reaction was divided. While some stated that the similarity is evident, others argued that similar riffs are common within metal, a result of structures and scales frequently used in the genre.
One internet user commented: “I found the post unnecessary, a simple inbox message would have solved it. When we bring this to the media, it can generate haters and support cancel culture.”.
Arch Enemy fans, however, defended the band. "I'm sorry this embarrassment comes from my country... Kiko's ego is ridiculously huge...", said one fan. Another fan stated: "His behavior was absolutely unnecessary... As a great musician, he should handle this like a professional musician.".
Another group defended Kiko: “What can you expect from Amott? If you take a good look at his discography, the guy just copies other people's riffs and pop references and turns them into melodic death metal haha. This time, someone who knows their stuff caught him red-handed,” said one internet user.
Even his Angra bandmates commented on the post. Felipe Andreolicommented in a lighthearted way: "It almost seems like I know this song." Rafael Bittencourt said: "Elegance was added to the music?"
Without any formal charges, the case continues as a typical social media debate.
READ ALSO: Kiko Loureiro announces 4 shows in Brazil with a mysterious special guest.
