The Black Barn, which has become Enfield’s most intimate and atmospheric live music venue, is celebrating its fourth anniversary on Saturday, April 13, with arguably the best-known act in its short history.

The compact Forty Hall Farm venue, whose monthly gigs have proved hugely popular amongst the local community since being set up as a spin-off of the annual Livestock summer festival, welcome the world-famous Dr and the Medics for what is certain to be a special celebratory occasion.

The band appeared numerous times on Top of the Pops in the 1980s and are best known for their version of Spirit in the Sky which sold several million copies in over 20 countries.

Formed in 1982 by Clive Jackson, a former DJ, Doctor and the Medics’ musical style has been variously described as neo-psychedelia, glamrock, new wave, punk and pop-rock. The band remain one of the 80s most iconic acts, playing a mix of covers and totally original material, and are famed as much for their flamboyant appearance as their songs.

While the Medics have undergone various changes to their line-up over the years, several current members have been with Clive, known simply as The Doctor, for the best part of a generation. In fact, the Black Barn appearance of Medics’ bass player Jon Randle represents his own 20th anniversary gig with the band.

Importantly, not all sets are the same depending on the type of audience and the vibe on the night.

“People say that we should do this song or that song and they appear to be obvious choices but they don’t always work on a particular night,” says Clive.

But Spirit in the Sky is, of course, always played as, in most cases, are other classic covers such as You Spin Me Round.

Despite often playing before crowds of several thousand, Clive has no issues with downsizing. He says there is still an important place for small venues like the Black Barn with so many live music clubs going to the wall.

“Over the years I’ve seen so many of them disappear but these are kinds of places we learned our craft and cut our teeth,” he says. “Before the internet, this is how bands got their name. That’s why we are so looking forwarding to coming to the Black Barn.”

Support on Saturday is provided by Black Barn favourites White Light who also have a flamboyant front man and make a welcome return to Enfield.

Tickets can be bought in advance from www.livestockuk.com or on the night. Doors open 7pm.

The Black Barn, Forty Hall, Enfield, EN2 9HA.