A couple of interesting articles about self-publishing music using a crowdfunding model. I also happen to really like the album (DFRNT - Fading), enough to spend money on it.
http://sittingovation.com/articles/fading-the-whole-story-crowdfunding-and-how-it-all-worked-out-part-1/
http://sittingovation.com/articles/fading-the-whole-story-crowdfunding-and-how-it-all-worked-out-part-2/

The second part especially gives some insight into how much work there is in this process. Labels and publishing companies do fill a need here.

It's also well worth reading Angus Finlayson's article about the dangers of crowdfunding in the music world which references DFRNT's project.
http://www.factmag.com/2012/04/23/without-you-i-am-nothing-kickstarter-indiegogo-and-the-rise-of-the-fan-funded-project/