IF THE Mavericks got a penny every time someone hummed one of their songs, they'd be billionaires by now.

Even if you're not familiar with the band, chances are you know their international hit Dance the Night Away, which is so infectious that you only need to hear a snatch of it to have it going round your head for a week.

Founded in Miami in the early 90s and fronted by singer-songwriter Raul Malo, The Mavericks have enjoyed worldwide success with their breakthrough mix of Latin-infused, Rat Pack-influenced rock and roll style of country music.

Although they come from a region that is better known for its love of rock than country, the band have won the praise of Nashville based record companies and country radio stations.

Their big break came in 1994 when they released the album What a Crying Shame, which went platinum.

They became popular on this side of the Atlantic in 1998, when Dance the Night Away reached number four in the pop charts.

The Mavericks come to the

area as part of their first full UK tour for five years. The band will be performing tracks from their new self-titled album as well as old favourites from their 1998 album Trampoline and hits from earlier in their career.

The Mavericks will be at Portsmouth Guildhall on 18th October. Tickets: £22.50. Box office: 023 9282 4355 . They will be at the BIC on Sunday, 19th October. Tickets: £22.50. Box office: 01202 456456.