The U.S. Army Blues, part of the United States Army Band "Pershing's Own," is the premier jazz ensemble of the US Army. After informal beginnings in 1970, this 19-piece ensemble became an official element of the Army Band in 1972. The Army Blues strive to fulfill their mission through public concerts, educational outreach, and the preservation of the tradition of America's unique art form: jazz. The U.S. Army Blues are celebrating their first album release in a decade, titled "Beyond the Standard". The album features brand new compositions and arrangements from members of the band.