Members of indie folk band Interim balance music, education

Imagine trying to reach a far-off destination without a map. It may be similar to what freshman marketing major Parker Smith said he has experienced as his band, Interim, grows in popularity.

With a growing following in the Metroplex, numerous shows and a recently released EP, members of the self-proclaimed indie folk band feel it is finally their time, Smith said.

Inspired by the likes of Mumford & Sons, Relient K and Death Cab For Cutie, Interim released its first self-recorded EP, “Kings In The Corner,” in early January, he said. The band recently played at the Stay Wired Coffeehouse on Berry Street as well as other local venues.

But the journey to Interim’s current state has been long and sometimes difficult, Smith said.

As early as sixth grade, Smith said he and his friends Derek Wenth and Alec Wallace dreamt of starting a band and becoming rock stars. They learned various instruments and played together after school.

Now college freshmen, the three joined up with another friend, Preston Ash, last fall. Then, Interim was officially born, Smith said.

There have been obstacles, he said. The four have to juggle music and school, and one member, Ash, goes to school in Virginia.

To remedy that, Interim writes flexible songs for three or four musicians, depending on whether Ash is in town. They also ensure everyone has an equal say in the band, Smith said.

And, despite disagreements, the band is first and foremost a group of best friends, he said.

“There have been times when some offensive words have been said, but we have had to work through it,” Smith said. “Criticism is always hard, but it is good for growth as a band and as people.”

Booking shows also has been a challenge, Smith said.

“You have to get to know a lot of people, especially other musicians who have been around the block and have more experience,” Smith said. “Stay Wired has been my hub. That’s where we really got started out.”

Smith said he has gained insight and advice from other area musicians like Green River Ordinance and 2010 TCU graduate Tim Halperin.

Despite all the advice and connections, however, Smith said one fellow musician gave him the best advice yet.

“He said, ‘There’s no right way to do this, and I’m not going to tell you where you go or what to do,’” Smith recalled. “That was some great advice, and I know we have to make our own path.”

The six tracks on the “Kings In The Corner” EP draw from many sources of inspiration, like faith and relationships, Smith said.

Although there are nerves, Smith said playing songs like his personal favorite, “Mt Worth,” make him feel excited and content simultaneously.

“Some of those songs I feel like are a part of me,” Smith said. “We embody this thing called Interim and we just … give off these songs. It’s exciting. It’s fulfilling.”

Now the band is writing more songs and is considering professionally remastering “Kings In The Corner,” Smith said.

Despite the fact Interim is not making a profit yet, the band focuses on enjoying its following and playing music, Smith said.

“We think if we are passionate about our music, people will see that and want to be involved,” Smith said. “In the end, we’re just having a lot of fun.”

Although the band is still growing, Smith said he has already learned one valuable lesson.

“Run with your passion,” Smith said. “You can always accommodate doing what you love, and you’ll find a way, whether that’s music or something else.”

To buy “Kings In The Corner” or for more information about upcoming shows, check out facebook.com/InterimBand.