Scores of independent labels succumbed to the ska implosion of the late '90s. Asian Man Records -- one of the most visible and successful proponents of third-wave ska -- was one of the fortunate few. But luck isn't the only reason Asian Man's owner, Mike Park, is a survivor; the former Skankin' Pickle saxophonist has built an entire network of punk rock and activism around the Plea for Peace Foundation, a non-profit group that has raised thousands of dollars for charity through its popular annual tour. His idealism spills over into his music. Besides fronting the Chinkees and the B. Lee Band, Park is a solo acoustic performer whose direct, disarming pop songs recall the Jam and Ted Leo at their most tender. Park brings his positive vibe to the Climax Lounge, with Colossal, Jenny Choi and Autonomous Collective. Ska may or may not see another upswing; regardless, Park will surely keep shooting straight from the heart.