The premiere of Dimash Qudaibergen’s new musical reality show Voice Beyond Horizon has received widespread praise from media outlets and music critics in both China and Kazakhstan. Reviewers welcomed the launch of the project and shared their impressions of its debut episode.

“Today I watched the new program Voice Beyond Horizon and was surprised at how good it turned out to be. It is perfectly suited for music lovers with rather refined tastes. It made me think of something: although many musical entertainment shows have emerged in recent years, many fans still complain that there are very few truly pure music programs. Perhaps we sometimes need to shift our perspective — avoiding those programs that attract attention, maximize hype, or even skillfully exploit algorithms and traffic. Sometimes real musical gems can be discovered. Take Voice Beyond Horizon, for example.

The success of any music show largely depends on its structural logic. Voice Beyond Horizon is a program initiated by People’s Artist of Kazakhstan Dimash, together with four Chinese-language singers — Lei Jia, Li Yugang, Julia Peng, and Cai Guoqing — and American music producer Walter Afanasieff as witnesses. This lineup, which largely defines the musical direction, already creates a solid foundation for the program’s strong musicality.

By staging performances in an authentic natural setting, Voice Beyond Horizon transcends the boundaries of traditional music reality shows and becomes a true ‘music-and-landscape show.’ The seamless integration of performers, scenery, and melodies creates a profound sense of unity, where all elements genuinely become one.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263090077927948

“Departing from traditional music formats, Voice Beyond Horizon moves its stage into the vast natural and cultural landscapes of Kazakhstan. The stage, centered around a vinyl record as its main visual symbol, rests serenely among lawns and lakes.

As the singers slowly cross the wooden bridge toward the stage, it resembles a stylus gently touching a record, initiating a performance witnessed by heaven and earth. The tranquil waters, vivid lawns, and the depth of the record’s sound intertwine to form a striking visual image.

Suspended above the water and set against expansive nature, the stage minimizes the heaviness of artificial construction. The music seems to grow from the earth and spread toward the sky, perfectly reflecting the essence of a ‘sound rising from beyond the horizon.’”
https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/n_M0VfJluHKsKyRLjI0F1w

“The show not only builds bridges for mutual learning between civilizations through the universal language of music, but also vividly captures Kazakhstan’s historic landscapes and modern vitality through documentary-style filming, injecting new momentum into the local cultural tourism sector. This musical odyssey, beginning at the outposts of the Silk Road and channeling youthful energy toward a shared future, demonstrates through sincere encounters and innovative practices the power of culture and art in strengthening mutual understanding and advancing the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.”
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“Eight singers, each with their own distinctive style yet harmoniously blending together, performed a cross-cultural musical symphony in this ancient hub of the Silk Road.

Unlike traditional music competitions, this show uses a ‘points-based, no-elimination’ format. One hundred on-site members of the star evaluation panel, together with the initiators and witnesses, collectively assess the performances. The top three musicians in the final ranking will be awarded the title of ‘Stars of Glory.’

It is reported that the singers will visit four cities in Kazakhstan, where they will give eight concerts. During their journey, they will immerse themselves in local culture, visit ancient ruins, admire natural landscapes, and participate in traditional rituals. They will embody the humanistic charm and historical depth of the Silk Road in their musical works, allowing audiences to appreciate the allure of diverse cultures.”
https://m.chinanews.com/wap/detail/chs/zw/10567315.shtml

Undoubtedly, one of the most striking highlights of the premiere episode was the first performance by the project’s executive producer Dimash Qudaibergen, presenting an updated version of his original song “Fire.”

“This was, without a doubt, a ‘super-vocal showcase’ — the level of difficulty was simply staggering. ‘Fire’ is an electronic fusion-rock composition designed to demonstrate vocal mastery. For a male voice, a mixed register of D♯5–F♯5 is already exceptionally challenging, yet it then ascends an entire octave higher, to D♯6–F♯6. It must be acknowledged that Dimash’s five sequences of powerful high mixed notes now sound noticeably deeper and broader than they did nine years ago.

It is often claimed that certain songs are ‘impossibly difficult’ or ‘written without regard for vocal limitations,’ though such statements are frequently exaggerated. However, this particular composition truly pushes boundaries, as male vocalists capable of performing it are extraordinarily rare. Perhaps such songs are not the kind one endlessly replays on a music player, but these live performances often reveal a profound desire among popular vocalists to continually push the boundaries of vocal expression to the very limits of human capability.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263086002373847

“The structure of the song and its creative approach remain relatively simple and functional: as an opening number, it must energize the atmosphere and allow Dimash to make yet another stunning impression. Thus, it is specifically crafted to showcase his wide vocal range and rich tonal palette. The inclusion of a rap section further highlights his rhythmic abilities.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263303756482222

The participant from Kazakhstan who took first place in the premiere episode also rightfully received positive reviews from music critics. Nurzhas Sadyirbayev performed the song “Samal,” written by Dimash Qudaibergen to lyrics by Oral-Kosay Baysengir.

“His vocal qualities are truly remarkable — his technique is exceptionally solid and reflects serious classical vocal training. He performed a classical pop composition written by Dimash. Drawing a parallel with China, such a singer would correspond to contestants of ‘The Voice of China’ who combine idol appeal with impressive vocal mastery.

Compared to Dimash, his approach is more traditional, and his vocal range is closer to conventional standards. However, within this traditional framework, the quality of his voice is exceptionally high — rich, pure, strong, and powerful. His technique is flawless, radiating academic, musical-theatrical, classical elegance and refinement. I look forward to seeing more from this singer on the program.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263090963985934

“In this competition, Nurzhas’s performance was pleasing to the ear and genuinely captivating. The style of the song blends the musical traditions of Central Asia and Russia, forming a unique cross-genre work. The melody, grand in scale, is both piercing and tragic, presenting an immense vocal challenge as it spans the tenor’s natural golden register and the most difficult transitional zone of the voice.

Nevertheless, Nurzhas performed it with ease. His technique combines pop and bel canto, demonstrating exceptionally solid foundations. Particularly in the middle register, the fusion of chest and throat resonance with articulation points characteristic of Kazakh consonants creates a charming guttural timbre. In addition, the clarity and brilliance of his mixed voice in the upper register possess the cathedral-like resonance required in traditional bel canto.

This composition contains numerous passages that pass through the vocal break, which he executes with ease, grace, and profound beauty. Nurzhas represents the quintessence of exceptional vocal talent, possessing a naturally pure and crystal-clear timbre alongside exemplary vocal habits and aesthetic sensitivity. With so many strengths, his future performances generate great anticipation.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263749683350747

The other participants of the show also drew the attention of Chinese media through their combination of authenticity and boldness, classical education, and experimental approaches to music.

“Tonight I watched Mango TV’s new music show Voice Beyond Horizon and found it magnificent. It features talented singers from different countries and ethnic groups competing in Kazakhstan, evaluated by an international audience. Most perform songs in their native languages, conveying music purely through melody — emotional communication that transcends language leaves listeners with the purest sonic impression.

I initially turned on the television because of Cai Chengyu and Jeryl Lee, and both delivered truly outstanding performances. Cai Chengyu’s solid classical vocal training combined with his vibrant personality makes him utterly captivating.

Each participant possesses their own aesthetic appeal, and nearly every performer offers something unique and compelling. The pace of the program remains clear and steady throughout. For those who wish to experience the beauty of exotic music from different countries, Voice Beyond Horizon is definitely worth watching.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263089798481056

“Jeryl Lee performed a cover of Malaysian singer Faizal Tahir’s song ‘Gemuruh.’ As a fellow Malaysian, she chose to present this energetic composition in a female vocal style, fully demonstrating the vocal qualities characteristic of Malaysian singers.

Within this music program dedicated to China’s ‘Belt and Road’ initiative, she used the song to tell the story of her roots and the strengths of her voice. Her performance stands out as an authentic vocal presentation within the show, combining classical vocal skill with contemporary pop sensibility. Equally captivating is the cinematography capturing Kazakhstan’s picturesque landscapes.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263106603225045

“In the premiere of this season, 19-year-old Italian singer-songwriter Giulia performed her original composition Chasseurs d’étoiles. The track evokes the retro style of 1980s new wave, blending the unrestrained rhythm of punk with youthful exuberance and untamed freedom. Giulia’s voice is rich, warm, and full of passion, radiating youthful energy. She brought to the program the artistic romanticism of the Apennine Peninsula and the boldness of contemporary youth pursuing their dreams.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263104574496282

“The traditional vocal style of Tibetan mountain songs from China is characterized by high pitch and resonance, possessing remarkable penetrating power. This innate vocal technique developed on the vast snowy plateau, where people required long-distance communication, resulting in this highly effective method of voice projection.

La Danzhu’s singing is rooted in this natural yet scientifically grounded foundation. Consequently, fundamental vocal requirements such as register unity and tonal consistency pose no problem for her voice, which handles them with ease. Throughout the song, she transitions effortlessly and gracefully between different zones of the female voice, as if walking on level ground. Moreover, she demonstrates exceptional control over the dynamics of her mixed voice.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263313371402243

“Serbian singer Princ possesses a rich voice with deep emotional expressiveness. Even without understanding the lyrics, one can clearly sense his mastery in conveying a character’s persona. This composition is undoubtedly competitive in nature, designed to showcase various technical skills in order to maximize the singer’s artistry within a few minutes.

Beyond vocal technique, the song’s use of minor harmonies and lyrical content deliberately intensifies its tragic undertone, testing the performer’s artistic expressiveness. He fulfilled all these requirements with remarkable mastery. Considering his overall stage presence and expressive power, he possesses the fundamental acting skills expected of a professional stage performer.”
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5263741466970677

Kazakhstani media are also extensively covering the launch of the new show and the premiere, which Dimash Qudaibergen celebrated together with fans in Almaty.

“The program will introduce international audiences to the country’s natural diversity and tourism potential. Viewers will see iconic locations: ancient Turkestan, the landscapes of Bozzhyra and the coast of the Caspian Sea, Lakes Kaindy and Kobeytuz, the tourist village of Saty, the Kapchagay Reservoir, as well as the Shchuchinsk-Burabay resort area.

As noted by the Chairman of the Management Board of JSC ‘NC Kazakh Tourism,’ Talgat Gazizov, the project will become part of the strategy to promote Kazakhstan through international media platforms.

‘We are building cooperation with leading global TV channels and platforms such as Euronews Travel and Amazon Prime Video. We thank Dimash Qudaibergen for initiating the project Voice Beyond Horizon, which will present Kazakhstan’s tourist destinations to a billion-strong international audience,’ he stated.

The audience of Hunan TV exceeds 1.9 billion people. The broadcast will also be available on the digital platform Mango TV.”
https://rus.baq.kz/proekt-dimasha-kudaybergena-o-kazahstane-pokazhut-na-kitayskom-televidenii_300032539/

“Kanat Aitbaev, the artist’s father, noted that Dimash had long nurtured the idea of an international project aimed at promoting the country’s tourism potential, supporting young performers, and strengthening cultural ties between nations.

‘Dimash had the opportunity to realize the project Voice Beyond Horizon together with Hunan TV, which gave him his start on the international stage nine years ago. The program will showcase the most attractive corners of our country. We hope the project will captivate viewers, given that Hunan TV’s audience is one of the largest in the world,’ said Kanat Aitbayev.”
https://www.inform.kz/amp/dimash-kudaybergen-predstavil-premeru-mezhdunarodnogo-proekta-v-almati-616554

The second episode of the show will be released on Hunan TV and Mango TV on February 12, and starting February 14, the project will begin broadcasting on the Qazaqstan TV channel.

Enjoy watching!