I couldn't agree more! This is one of the first anime i ever saw and in my opinion it should be regarded as one of the best anime ever made.
One thing you forgot to mention is the music, most episodes have an awesome swinging jazz beat to them that really sets this anime apart from all the other anime out there. Its one of the things that makes this anime immortal and not easily forgotten among anime fans.
Be sure after you have seen the series to also check out the anime movie: http://trakt.tv/movie/cowboy-bebop-the-movie-2001
@dunpealhunter - I was so excited to watch the next episode again I forgot to pay the music its dues!
I was literally da-duh da-duh'ing the theme song "Tank!" while I was typing. The initial sting and then that fat slapping bass and the sax. Phenomenal is the only word for the music in this series and Cowboy Bebop The Movie (Knockin' on Heavens Door). You're right when you said every episode has a signature tune in this vein, each with a flavour on top; many episode titles have a music reference. Total synergy.
The opening credits tell you exactly what you are getting with this show; the music, the design style, it just oozes cool. It's very similar to the Archer opening credits.
http://youtu.be/T6zDfxZ4NcE
They released a couple of soundtracks. I have the first, it came with the Perfect Sessions boxset in 2001, and it's superb. I love the CD art because it doesn't break character and describes the bands rise to fame in 2048 and is a really fun read.
http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/9439/cowboybebopost1back.jpg
It doesn't matter what kind of day you've had this will make aways you smile. Yoko kanno walks on stage and the crowd love it, the extended sax solo at the end is smooooth.
http://youtu.be/M_25mVjKwcc
"I think it's time to blow this scene,
get everyone and their stuff together,
Ok. 3,2,1 let's jam"
Shout by MajorMercyFlushVIP OG 14BlockedParent2013-02-26T05:20:29Z
Absolute masterpiece. I remember the first time I watched it and needing to take a quiet half hour after the jaw dropping finale.
If anime has never grabbed you, this is the one to check out to maybe change your mind. Regardless of the medium it's just a fantastic story with big ideas, engaging characters and good balance of humor.
...and what's not to love about a tricked out welsh corgi in space :)
Totally space cowboy.
[there is a live action adaptation in the works with Keanu Reeves chasing the lead role. Sadly for the moment its stuck in development hell]