Megadeth played their first show with guitarist Teemu Mäntysaari , a day after announcing that he would replace Kiko Loureiro on the North American tour. The Brazilian guitarist withdrew from the tour for family reasons.
The performance took place last Wednesday, the 6th, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as part of the Crush The World tour. Check out videos of the show at the end of this article.
Mäntysaari, a Finnish guitarist best known for playing in the bands Wintersun and Smackbound , was chosen by Kiko Loureiro himself, as explained in a statement released by the band through social media.
In a statement written by vocalist Dave Mustaine , Kiko says the following: “I have something that is difficult to share, but we always like to keep you informed with the truth. I have to leave the tour for now to be at home with my children and help them face the difficult challenges that come with being working parents.”
“I found a guitarist, Teemu Mäntysaari, to fill in for me during the fall, and I think you’ll be very happy. He’s an amazing, incredible musician. I shared this with my partner Dave Mustaine and, unsurprisingly, he said, ‘Go! Be there to help your family and keep us updated!’ To my bandmates and all our fans around the world, see you soon, back on the Killing road!”
Mustaine concluded the statement by assuring that the tour will not be canceled and asked for the support and understanding of fans as they move forward.
