Altoist Marc Russo was a key member of the Yellowjackets during 1982-1990. Although an R&B-oriented player, Russo's solos pushed the popular group in a stronger jazz direction than it had been earlier with guitarist Robben Ford. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Russo worked locally in clubs and as a studio musician, showing impressive control of his horn. He was with Tower of Power during most of 1981-1085 (overlapping with his Yellowjackets years). After leaving the Jackets, Russo led a set for JVC. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi