Given that Noctu was the brains behind Celestia, it comes as no surprise that there are strong similarities in sound between the two bands -- for example, the melodies are instantly recognisable as emanating from the same creative well, as is the overall sound. The link between the two bands is further emphasised by a new version of "Fruits of a Tragic End", which appeared on Celestia's _Evoking Grace and Splendour_ EP. Like Celestia, there is a predominant mood of melancholia, but with an additional note of despair. Musically, it possesses a rawer, more abrasive sound, with a nod to the more traditional facet of black metal, and unlike Celestia's more varied tempos, _VTM_ remains strictly at midtempo throughout its duration. Noctu's trademark indiscernible (not to mention psychotic) screams have been replaced by a chilling banshee wail.

If Mortifera is, as it seems at the moment, set to be a side project while Celestia is on hold, then the similarities between the two bands are of little consequence. However, if Mortifera is, as I suspect, intended to be Celestia's eventual successor, Noctu will have to work harder at creating a separate identity to ensure that Mortifera is not simply seen as Celestia by another name.