On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, Boston-based singer-songwriter and Harvard neuroscientist Staci Gruber delivers a boot-stomping, heartfelt rock-meets-Americana honky-tonk anthem with her infectious new single “This Time Around,” capturing the silver linings of a love that pulled too hard and truths that arrived just in time to set a heart free.
This Time Around
Boston-based singer-songwriter Staci Gruber has unveiled her latest track, “This Time Around,” a vibrant blend of rock and Americana that pulses with honky-tonk energy. Recorded in Nashville and produced by Erik Halbig—known for his work with artists like Ty Herndon and Jamie O’Neal—the song was co-written by Gruber and Michael Orland, a seasoned songwriter recognized for his contributions to American Idol.


The track stands out as a relatable, infectious anthem that captures the bittersweet essence of a relationship strained by intense love, delayed revelations, and eventual self-awareness. It tells a story of a love that exerted too much force, truths arriving after the moment had passed, and a heart that ultimately heeded its own wisdom when it counted most. With its boot-stomping rhythm, fiery guitar riffs, evocative slide work, and upbeat country-rock landscapes, the single delivers an emotionally charged yet hopeful take on heartbreak, highlighting silver linings amid the pain.
Staci Gruber
Music has been a cornerstone of Gruber’s life since childhood. What started as a private, introspective outlet—singing quietly in her closet—evolved into a defining moment during elementary school when she performed her first solo on “12 Days of Christmas.” That experience unlocked her powerful voice, setting her on an unwavering path in music.
Her early summers at the French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts deepened this commitment, nurturing her growing devotion to the art form. Gruber pursued an ambitious academic route in music, becoming the first student to transition from a classical voice program to jazz studies in a pioneering five-year dual-degree program between Tufts University and the New England Conservatory of Music. This unique training has fueled her versatility as a performer and songwriter, allowing her to draw from a wide array of influences including Anne Murray, Barbra Streisand, Karen Carpenter, k.d. lang, Billie Eilish, Pink, Nancy Wilson, and John Coltrane. These diverse elements converge in her distinctive style, creating a rich musical melting pot.
Gruber has applied her talents as the lead vocalist in a popular Greater Boston band, where she navigated an eclectic mix of genres and styles, further honing her ability to connect across audiences.


Balancing Groundbreaking Science and Soulful Artistry
Beyond her musical pursuits, Gruber has built an illustrious career as a renowned Harvard Medical School professor and pioneering neuroscientist at McLean Hospital. Her groundbreaking research centers on the long-term effects of cannabinoids, examining their impact across various medical conditions through advanced neuroimaging and cognitive measures. This work has produced valuable real-world data, influencing clinical trials and offering key insights into the therapeutic potential of cannabis.
Gruber’s ability to excel in these seemingly disparate fields underscores her multifaceted nature. Her music often weaves personal experiences with universal emotional narratives, delving into themes of isolation, loneliness, and hope to forge deep connections with listeners.
Notable Collaborations and Lasting Impact
Throughout her journey, Gruber has shared stages with icons like Dan Aykroyd and the Blues Brothers, composed an anthem for tennis legend Billie Jean King, and collaborated repeatedly with Michael Orland on major performances and songwriting projects.
Her artistry and scientific contributions both emphasize the theme of connection—whether through the healing power of music or innovative medical exploration. Gruber believes music serves as a vital tool for evoking necessary emotions and fostering empathy by helping people grasp others’ perspectives, reinforcing that no one is ever truly alone.
With “This Time Around,” Staci Gruber continues to bridge worlds, delivering a track that resonates on both personal and universal levels while showcasing her enduring commitment to authentic, heartfelt storytelling. The single is now available on major streaming platforms.
Find more from Staci Gruber now:
https://www.instagram.com/drstacigruber
We strive to keep The Table Read free for both our readers and our contributors. If you have enjoyed our work, please consider donating to help keep The Table Read going!
