VOYA are a Cardiff-based duo, Linford Hydes and Eddie Al-Shakarchi, blending the emotive songwriting and rich production of early 80s British synth-pop with a dark, modern electronic edge. Their sound merges stylish new-wave energy with cinematic depth, creating performances that are both powerful and immersive.
Linford, trained in musical theatre at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, brings a commanding stage presence and a classically trained yet soulful vocal delivery that defines VOYA’s live identity.
Eddie, an award-winning producer and multi-instrumentalist (notably contributing to Boy Azooga’s acclaimed 1, 2 Kung Fu! album), merges his PhD-level expertise in audio processing with creative artistry to build evocative soundscapes that perfectly frame Linford’s vocals.
Together, VOYA deliver a unique musical and visual experience, fusing emotion, precision, and performance flair. Their live lineup also features the operatic vocals of Jessy Allen, adding further depth and power to their shows.
VOYA have self-produced their debut 12-track album, releasing their first single Too Shy for Love in December 2024 alongside a self-directed video.
VOYA were hand-selected by Walt Disco to support them at Clwb Ifor Bach in Cardiff. Their premiere at The Great Escape 2023 featured two showcases, followed by debut performances at the Green Man Festival (Settlers Stage, 2023), and a headline slot at the International Queer Film Festival: IRIS Prize. They also sold out Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff in 2023.
VOYA continue to receive strong support from BBC Radio Wales, where they are a regular Welsh A-List artist, and can now be heard on Huw Stephens’ BBC 6 Music show.
In recognition of their rising impact, VOYA received the Triskell Award at the Welsh Music Prize 2023, celebrating them as “one of the best emerging acts of 2024.” Most recently, they showcased internationally at Pro Weekend Festival in Castellón, Spain (October 2025), with support from FOCUS Wales.