Paramore to headline Saltair on May 6; interview with guitarist

In between the pop-rock band Paramore's 2009 album "Brand New Eyes" and the recently released self-titled album, the Tennessee-based band lost two of its founding members, including the band's main co-writer with frontwoman Hayley Williams.

So remaining guitarist Taylor York had to step up to write songs with Williams.

"It was very intimidating," York said in a phone interview. "I never feel like I know what I'm doing. I had written, like, 5 complete songs before this. But it could have been a strength because I didn't feel like I had to stay in the boxes.

Lucky for Paramore fans, York delivered, and "Paramore" is the best album the still-young band has ever created, as well as one of the best and most dynamic rock albums released so far this calendar year.

"We didn't want to be a different band, but we wanted to push ourselves," York said.

York had been simply a touring member of the band before becoming an official member, and still doesn't know why he, Williams and bass player Jeremy Davis work so well together.

"If people knew, they would be able to manufacture bands," he said. "I'm just grateful ... We're just happy to be here. We're happy to work hard."

When • Monday, May 6, at 7 p.m.Where • Saltair, 12408 W. Saltair Drive, MagnaTickets • $35 in advance, $40 day of, at SmithsTix