Dave Mustaine joined a chat with Brazil’s Rádio Kiss FM and said he would be okay with Kiko Loureiro’s return to Megadeth in the future.
When the interviewer asked if there was a possibility of Kiko joining Megadeth on stage for at least one song at an upcoming concert, Mustaine responded:
“I don’t think right now that’s something that Kiko’s interested in because he left for a reason, to be with his family. He needs to be there. And if the time presents itself in the future, I’m not opposed to it.”
Mustaine Is Realistic About Kiko’s Return
The guitarist went on to share how he would feel about Kiko’s potential comeback:
“We just got done playing [a couple of shows] with [former Megadeth guitarist] Marty [Friedman]. So, that kind of shows you how I feel about that. But I’m trying to be a little realistic about stuff. I know if it was me, the last thing I would do is quit a band I love to be home with my family and then go back out on the road with the band that I quit.”
Loureiro’s Departure In 2023
In September 2023, Kiko announced he was taking a break from Megadeth. Then, in November, he said he’d be extending the break into 2024:
“In September, I had to step away from the US leg of the tour for family reasons. Looking ahead, during 2024, we anticipate an even heavier touring schedule for Megadeth. After thorough reflection and discussions with Dave Mustaine and Megadeth’s management, we have collectively agreed that it is the right move to extend my absence. I don’t want to hinder any of the band’s plans or the hard work of all the incredible people involved in the tour.”
How Did Mustaine React To Kiko?
Later, Mustaine revealed that Wintersun’s Teemu Mäntysaari would fill in for Kiko for the band’s upcoming shows. Later, in January 2024, Loureiro discussed his exit from Megadeth and Mustaine’s reaction to it, explaining:
“It was complicated for me to say because I wanted to play, but I knew I needed to be at home. And, of course, Dave was not expecting it. We had just done a show in Florida with the Misfits, and it was right after that show that I talked to Dave. And then Megadeth management was there, and I let them know I could not do the September gigs. I offered to help find a replacement and do what was needed to help Megadeth be ready to go.”
Mustaine also said in February that he felt disappointed about Kiko’s departure but praised Mäntysaari, whom Kiko recommended. Mustaine thinks Teemu is the right choice for the band and appreciates Kiko’s help in finding him.
You can listen to Dave’s latest chat below.