Nat Adderley Jr., renowned pianist, keyboardist, composer, musical director and arranger, steps into the spotlight with Took So Long, his first album as a leader. Best known for his four decades shaping the music of Luther Vandross, Adderley now steps out front with a trio project. The album offers a pleasing mix of standards and reimagined classics. Across the record Adderley’s joined by longtime friends, bassist Belden Bullock and drummer Steve Johns, as well as bassist Chris Berger and drummers Tommy Campbell, Dwayne Cook Broadnax and Vince Ector. Adderley’s version of “Superstar,” first arranged for Vandross on Busy Body in 1983 and later Live at Radio City Music Hall, shifts from its moody aura into a festive Brazilian samba.