Plea for Peace

For those who bemoan the absence of political commentary from today's popular punk and ska groups, Plea for Peace offers a one-stop resource center that doubles as a showcase for bands that are down for the cause. Mike Park, an activist known for his participation in the Anti-Racist Action organization as well as his contributions to the diversity-minded ska groups The Chinkees and Skankin' Pickle, put together this tour and will perform a solo set. Other attractions include MU330 and Dan Potthast, MU330's frontman, who will play acoustic tunes from his solo gem, Eyeballs; The Blue Meanies, a jazz/noise/ska band some have dubbed the rude boy's answer to Mr. Bungle; and the Alkaline Trio, an emo-pop group that recently became labelmates with The Get Up Kids. Literature will be available for punks to peruse, and those who bring a can of food will receive a 30-song CD compilation in return. Reviews of the tour describe a positive vibe -- take Bad Religion's upbeat latest release, The New America, extend the time span to nearly five hours, and factor in the distinct voices of nine acts.