December 1999 is filled with global uncertainty. But in Chicago, musician Sam Greene is certain to play piano at any dingy establishment that will hire him. Typically, he can count on his longtime mentor, jazz great Ben Webster, to join him for a late night set on the piano. Irritable and not just because he’s in his seventies, Ben leaves the club before playing a single note. The next morning, Sam is devastated to learn that his best friend is dead. As a result, Sam’s perspective on life takes an abrupt change.

He notices how pathetically insignificant ones life can truly be. He stumbles through some interesting yet awkward situations, both funny and sad, including being conflicted about whether he should allow himself to fall in love with Kate Buckley, the reporter trying to get a story about his friend for Esquire, or continue his unhealthy relationship with Liz Brightwater of the Brightwater Marble fortune. In the end, Sam realizes that life is happening now. It’s admirable to respect the past, but he must also learn to trust his future.