The follow-up to 2007's A WHEEL WITHIN A WHEEL, Southeast Engine's second album, FROM THE FOREST TO THE SEA, starts with the three-part epic "The Forest," which recalls the epic scope and ramshackle folk-rock ambition of albums like the Decemberists' THE CRANE WIFE and Neutral Milk Hotel's IN THE AEROPLANE OVER THE SEA. Following that substantial beginning, the album settles into a more traditional brand of indie folk with some lo-fi rock leanings, but this 12-song set has an admirable musical and lyrical heft.