Justin Calabrese, acclaimed entrepreneur, author, and now recording artist, has released a soul-stirring new musical album titled Baptized in Regret, announced exclusively on his newly launched official website, www.justincalabrese.com. The album is a raw and emotional reflection on Calabrese’s personal experience with religious trauma during his youth, specifically tied to his time at Wapping Community Church in South Windsor, Connecticut.
The project draws heavily from Calabrese’s involvement in the church’s SPF (Senior Pilgrim Fellowship) program, where he was under the mentorship of former Youth Minister Kristen Klieman. What was once described to him as a “safe space” became, over time, a setting of spiritual and emotional harm that left deep and lasting wounds.
“This album is about reclaiming my voice,” Calabrese shares. “There was a point in my life where the very place that promised acceptance and understanding became the source of shame and silence. Baptized in Regret is my response — not out of anger, but out of a need to heal.”
The album, entirely written and digitally produced by Calabrese, journeys through themes of betrayal, grief, identity loss, and spiritual reawakening. It serves as a musical testimony for survivors of church-based trauma and anyone who has felt unheard within spaces that claimed to nurture them.
Launched alongside his new website, Baptized in Regret signals a bold new direction for Calabrese — not only as an artist, but as an advocate for mental health, authenticity, and the importance of speaking truth to power. The site will also serve as a growing resource for others navigating similar stories of recovery and rebuilding.
About Justin Calabrese
Justin Calabrese is a Hartford-based entrepreneur, author, business consultant, and suicide survivor. Featured on NPR for his early ventures in e-commerce, he has helped over 150 small businesses grow and thrive. Baptized in Regret is his first musical release — a vulnerable, creative project that speaks to his resilience, transformation, and the power of turning pain into purpose.
Listen Now
Baptized in Regret is now available exclusively at www.justincalabrese.com where fans can stream the album, explore lyrics, and learn more about the personal journey behind the music.