Hey, Patty: Sorry to hear that life is in a funk for you right now. I know the need to step away. I've had to do that more than once in my life. When that happens, words of good cheer can be downright irritating, so I'll try not to offer any. (Don't mean I don't feel them, though.)

Yeah, Harlem Nocturne set the tone for the whole Mike Hammer Series, and despite it being a familiar tune to me, I can't find a single recording of it. So, I started out with a great recording of In A Sentimental Mood by John Coltrane and Duke Ellington. It's much in feel like Harlem Nocturne: a small combo, with bass, drums, Coltrane and Ellington.

Great stuff.

Drop around when you feel like it. Complaining is allowed at the table, too, you know..

Jerry