Jim Labriola, better known as Benny (Tim's donut eating, mooch of a friend from the 90's TV show, Home Improvement), in recent years has accepted Christ as his savior. Labriola, who took a break from comedy for awhile, decided to turn his formerly rated R stand-up act into a family friendly show. Labriola has been perfecting his new act on cruise ships and in churches across the country. He has released the album, Heart Improvement, which is an obvious play on words from his former show, to go along with his new routine.

Jim speaks about everything from his Italian upbringing in "Idaho," to the state of Florida (where he now resides), to a stuttering Moses, and the dangers of flying. Jim does a solid job of keeping you laughing throughout album, which was recorded live at a church. While speaking of the neighborhood in which he grew up in, Jim informs his audience that everyone there said that anyone who had died there had had a "heart attack." He stated that those in the neighborhood were deaf and blind when it came to death and had nothing to offer but to say, "I don't know anything, but it looked like a heart attack." This becomes a running joke throughout the entire set.

Another running joke throughout Jim's set is the Italian word for "I love you"... Which is obviously, "Shut up!" Jim tells of how his mother used to tell him "shut up" all the time, and in turn spreads the love to some of the audience members. Labriola is very interactive with the audience and even takes one member's cell phone call. The comedian is very light-hearted throughout the routine and freely talks about his faith.

One of the best bits in the set is the last one, titled "Good Chance Airlines." Jim gives a hilarious look into air travel as he breaks down the pre-flight instructions and warnings. Between Jim describing what his "normal" breathing would be like if the cabin lost pressure, his thoughts on a water landing, and his opinion of the "reclining" seats; it is easily one of the best segments and is a perfect closing.

Though Jim's new set isn't rated R, it isn't exactly rated G either. With the repeated use of the word "shut up", and constant reference to murder, or "heart attacks" and a mild drug reference, this album is more along the lines of PG in rating. While these issues may seem a little harsh when talked about at face value, they do not come across this way as Jim progresses through the set. As mentioned earlier, Jim is extremely light-hearted and laid back. Heart Improvement is a worthwhile listen for any fan of stand-up, especially if you don't want to hear all the filth and foul language usually associated with the genre. Congratulations on your decision for Christ and your new album, Jim!

- Review date: 4/10/11, written by Michael Weaver of Jesusfreakhideout.com