Ariwo is led by Iranian electronic composer Pouya Ehsaei who processes the musicians live while creating soundscapes and hypnotic rhythms that draw influence from the folkloric music of Cuba and his home city of Tehran. Similar to the raw energy of Cuban rumba shows, the group thrives off its dialogue with the audience, drawing them in with the spirit and raw energy of the performance.

Ariwo (meaning "noise" in Yoruba) consists of Manana Cuba's Director of Sound Pouya Ehsaei alongside Hammadi Valdes, Oreste Noda & Yelfris Valdes - all renowned Cuban musician's in their own right. They premiered the project at the Manana Cuba Boiler Room takeover.