JAM student Sophia Hofinger opens Red Bull Stage at Nova Rock 2026 with Cassies

Vienna-based indie rock band Cassies is set to celebrate a major milestone as the group opens the Red Bull Stage at Nova Rock 2026, bringing its distinctive sound to one of Austria's largest festival audiences.

The band also shares a strong connection with JAM MUSIC LAB through member Sophia Hofinger, who is currently studying at JAM MUSIC LAB Private University. In 2025, she impressed the jury of the Planet Festival Tour and was awarded a full scholarship for her studies, marking an important step in her artistic journey.

Founded in spring 2024, Cassies blend memorable melodies with influences from psychedelic rock and soul, creating a sound that reflects the diverse musical backgrounds of its members. The band embraces experimentation, allowing genres to merge into an honest, vibrant and unmistakably individual musical identity. A defining element of their music is the distinctive use of trumpet, adding a unique sonic character to their songs. On stage, Cassies truly come into their own, combining infectious energy, musical joy and a genuine connection with their audience to create captivating live performances.

Their appearance as the opening act on the Red Bull Stage at Nova Rock 2026 highlights the continued success of emerging artists from the JAM MUSIC LAB community.