Man Can't Fly

Man Can't Fly

Man Can't Fly is a Bradford group active from 2012. It is a four-piece acoustic rock and alt-rock act with pop and rock elements.

The band forms in autumn 2012 after members watch Bradford band Scars On 45 at a homecoming show. The lineup consists of Ben Wadsworth on vocals, piano and guitar; James Waterhouse on vocals and guitar; Sam Connor on bass; and Oliver Cottenham on drums and percussion.

The group’s debut track, Don’t Waste My Time, also gives its name to a self-released EP. The track receives airplay on BBC Radio 1 daytime programmes presented by Sara Cox, Greg James, Dev, Huw Stephens, Scott Mills and Gemma Cairney, after being selected through BBC Introducing. The EP and track are available through major online retailers, and the video appears on YouTube.

Man Can't Fly draws on artists including Counting Crows, Five for Fighting, Twin Atlantic, Mumford & Sons and Coldplay. Its sound combines singer-songwriter storytelling, harmonies, melodic hooks and a full band arrangement.

The band plays a small number of live shows in and around Leeds, Bradford and nearby areas, with early performances reported as sold out. Its online presence includes Facebook, Twitter and a YouTube channel under the name mancantflymusictv.